Methods for estimating quantities and qualities (Q&Q) of faecal sludge: field evaluation in Sircilla, India
Estimates of accumulated quantities and qualities (Q&Q) of faecal sludge are essential for developing city-wide management plans. However, standardized approaches are lacking, and examples in scientific literature make use of diverse methodologies and parameters, making their comparability and t...
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Autores principales: | , , , , , , |
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Formato: | article |
Lenguaje: | EN |
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IWA Publishing
2021
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Materias: | |
Acceso en línea: | https://doaj.org/article/8efefdaafba44e3e8805648e0f3a0d27 |
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Sumario: | Estimates of accumulated quantities and qualities (Q&Q) of faecal sludge are essential for developing city-wide management plans. However, standardized approaches are lacking, and examples in scientific literature make use of diverse methodologies and parameters, making their comparability and transferability difficult. This study field-tested an approach for estimating Q&Q in Sircilla, India, and compared three methods for measuring accumulated sludge: (1) faecal sludge accumulation rate from in situ measurement with a core sampler; (2) faecal sludge accumulation rate with volume emptied by desludging truck; and (3) sludge blanket accumulation rate in situ with a core sampler. Measurements were taken at households and commercial establishments, samples were analysed for characteristics, and demographic, environmental, and technical data were collected with a questionnaire. The median total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentrations for all containments were 26.8, 17.8, and 32.0 g/L, respectively. The median faecal sludge accumulation rate estimated with the core sampler and truck were 53 and 96 L/cap·year, respectively. The median sludge blanket accumulation rate was 17 L/cap·year. Continued data collection in this fashion will lead to a better understanding of what is accumulating in onsite containments at regional levels. HIGHLIGHTS
Comparison of methodologies to estimate the total faecal sludge and sludge blanket accumulation rate.;
The selection of Q&Q measurement methods should be based on defined objectives and available resources.;
Q&Q studies conducted in this fashion will lead to more locally relevant accumulation rates than standard values.; |
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