Management of bulking sludge in waste water treatment based on rapid bacterial population identification using automated probe hybridization technique

Objective

Bulking sludge in biological waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) causes environmental pollution, higher discharge costs and can lead to the temporary closure of production units. Fast and specific detection methods need to be developed for the identification of microorganisms causing bulking sludge. 16S rRNA sequences, specific DNA probes and automated methods will be developed and used for a quantitative and specific detection of these microorganisms in activated sludge. WWTP managment is improved based on retrieved correlations between WWTP process conditions and growth of specific filamentous microorganisms causing bulking sludge. Partners that are sought for this research programme include industrial partners with WWTPs (pulp and paper industry), partners with expertise in automated methods for sample processing and microorganism detection using techniques in molecular biology.

Programme(s)

• FP4-BIOTECH 2 - Specific research, technological development and demonstration programme in the field of biotechnology, 1994-1998

Topic(s)

• 07 - Prenormative research, biodiversity and social acceptance

Funding Scheme

EAW - Exploratory awards

Coordinator

BIOCLEAR BV

Address

6D,zernikepark 6D
9704 CG Groningen
Netherlands

Participants (1)

EUROGENTEC BEL S.A.

Belgium

Address

Parc Scientifique De Sart-tilman
4102 Ougree