Industrial and municipal wastewater treatment facilities that rely on lagoon systems often face persistent challenges related to sludge accumulation. As solids settle at the bottom of lagoons over time, they reduce effective treatment volume and can contribute to operational issues such as odour generation, reduced dissolved oxygen levels and increased algae growth. Mechanical dredging remains an option for sludge removal, but it is typically costly and presents additional challenges related to handling and disposal.
Sludge is the solid fraction of organic and inorganic material that settles during lagoon treatment. As it accumulates, it occupies space needed for effective hydraulic retention and biological activity. Anaerobic conditions within sludge layers can also generate odorous compounds and inhibit treatment performance. For many operators, the priority is therefore to slow or reduce sludge accumulation before removal becomes unavoidable.
One approach used in lagoon management involves the application of bio-enzymatic formulations designed to enhance biological degradation of organic solids. BIOBOOSTER SR, developed by Bionetix, uses a combination of bacteria and enzymes intended to break down organic components such as grease, starch and fibres within settled sludge. The tablets are designed to sink to the lagoon bottom, where sludge typically accumulates, and to release their active components gradually over time.
According to the manufacturer, the slow-release matrix supports sustained microbial and enzymatic activity in low-oxygen environments. Facultative microorganisms continue to degrade organic matter under oxygen-limited conditions, contributing to sludge reduction and supporting denitrification processes that can influence nutrient balance in the water column.
Application rates depend on site-specific conditions including sludge volume, accumulation rate and temperature. Where sludge buildup is already significant, an initial shock dose is typically applied, followed by periodic maintenance dosing. In lagoons with minimal existing sludge, maintenance dosing may be used to limit future accumulation.
From an operational perspective, biological sludge reduction is often evaluated against the cost and disruption associated with mechanical dredging. While outcomes depend on lagoon design and influent characteristics, operators may consider such approaches as part of a broader sludge management strategy aimed at reducing odours, maintaining treatment capacity and extending the interval between physical sludge removal activities.
