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Application of flotation and electroflotation for oily wastewater treatment (Master thesis)

Γιαννάκης, Βασίλειος/ Giannakis, Vasileios/ Oil and Gas Technology

This thesis presents an in-depth examination of the application of flotation and electroflotation in the treatment of oil-contaminated wastewater. These technologies are critically analyzed for their efficiency, adaptability, and sustainability in mitigating environmental impacts associated with oil wastewater. Flotation, a process capitalizing on differences in particle hydrophobicity, is adept at removing suspended solids, oils, and greases, primarily through air bubble adherence. Electroflotation, utilizing electrolysis for bubble generation, excels in treating emulsified oils and finer particulates. The study explores various facets of these technologies, including fundamental principles, system design, performance comparisons, and optimization strategies. Significant attention is given to technological advancements and innovations, highlighting improvements in bubble generation, system configurations, and hybrid treatment approaches. Challenges in implementation, such as technical complexity, economic considerations, and regulatory compliance, are thoroughly evaluated. The environmental benefits, including improvement in water quality and ecosystem protection, are emphasized, alongside sustainability considerations like energy consumption and waste management. The thesis also addresses public health implications, underscoring the role of these technologies in disease prevention and enhancing water quality. Conclusively, the thesis offers recommendations for best practices in the application of flotation and electroflotation, advocating for optimized operational parameters, regular maintenance, and adherence to environmental regulations. Future prospects of these technologies are discussed, focusing on continued innovation and adaptation to emerging wastewater treatment challenges.