Liquid waste from fermentation operations may contain contaminants such as suspended solids, sulphides and other chemicals and substances in concentrations that can negatively impact private and public infrastructure, wastewater treatment, septic systems and the receiving environment.
Suspended solids can contribute significantly to the chemical and biochemical oxygen demand in wastewater. High concentrations can have an adverse effect on aquatic organisms by removing available oxygen from the water. Some cleaning chemicals used by fermentation operations can also be toxic to aquatic organisms. Organic loadings can also cause odours in the sewer system.
Variable pH, as a result of cleaners and acidic waste beer or wine, is also a concern. Caustics and acids are corrosives that may, in large volumes, cause damage to pipes and infrastructure. Damaged pipes can allow waste to escape in to the environment or allow rainwater in, which can cause flooding at your work site or increase loading to your septic systems or a wastewater treatment plant.