Optimizing Nitrification in Landfill Leachate Treatment: Effects of pH and Inorganic Carbon Source Concentration on Nitrogen Removal

This study was conducted to solve problems that arise in the nitrification of landfill leachate due to the increase in waste generation and diversification of components associated with domestic economic growth. Landfill leachate contains high concentrations of nitrogen compounds and organic substances thus, it is a potential cause of environmental pollution. The study findings confirmed that the nitrification process was inhibited when the metal (Cu) concentration was more than 2.5ppm: further, the nitrification rate could be greatly improved by replenishing alkalinity and adjusting pH. Additionally, appropriate Do and pH alone did not have a sufficient effect on nitrification. This study is expected to contribute to the development of new treatment technology that can minimize the use of chemicals and suppress the generation of secondary toxic substances in the landfill leachate treatment process.