SBT

SBT is a slight improvement of the older CSF process being a semi batch system. In SBT the BR1 is used for TSS removal based on this only 50% of the BR1 is active and has to be accounted for during process design BR1 = 2000 sqm/MLD). In case the entire BR1 is used then after total clogging of the top of the reactor the TSS has to be scrapped off from top by resting the BR1 for 1 week or more. Failure to remove TSS from the top will allow the TSS to enter the Soil bed requiring replacement of the entire Soil Bed. The percolated water from BR1 is collected in CT1. Water from CT1 is percolated through BR2 (1200 sqm/MLD) where denitrification is achieved via recycling from CT2 over BR2. Media used in the SBT process is the same as the CSF process with Shallow bed of Red Soil with earthworm ecology. However space requirement of SBT process reduces by 50% from 3200sqm/MLD to 2400 sqm/MLD. Some initial research into reduction of this area requirement was initiated by the VEC team. 

Soil Bio Technology (SBT) is an efficient process of synthesis to completely utilize solids and liquids, [tis economical in capital and recurring costs. It has a simple looking construction, free from conventional electro-mechanical systems which are prone to breakdowns. It efficiently integrates the physical, chemical and biological processes into a single aerobic system based on natural biophysical and bio-chemical principles. A specified additive is added’ in a predefined proportion. SBT is a synthesis process which harnesses the energy, carbon and other elements of the waste and converts them to precious “Bio-energy” products like vegetation, energy rich soil, complete Bio-fertilizer and water. It offers a bacterial removal of approx. 99.99 % thus ensuring a healthier environment in a sustained manner without any side effects. 

The technology combines sedimentation, infiltration and biodgradation process. It works with formulated geological environment wherein fundamental reactions of nature, namely respiration, photosynthesis and chemical mineral weathering are responsible for bioconversion of sewage. Suitable mineral constitution, culture containing native microflora, geophagus worms and bioindicator plants are the key components of the media. Bioconversion takes place by bacterial processing of organics and oxidisable inorganics via natural oxygen supply wherein mineral weathering reaction serves to regulate pH, while green plants serve as bioindicators. The high toxic potential, the neutral pH together with ecology of environment leads to significant reduction in the organic matter, nutrients and pathogens from wastewater.

SBT can be designed to treat any type of wastewater provided the wastewater is not saline (i.e. having total dissolved solids (TDS) = 1000 mg/L typically) and as long as the water is not toxic to micro organisms. SBT process requires temperature, between 20-45 degree Celsius (in low / very low temperature a greenhouse infrastructure appropriate for the local conditions can house SBT plant. The process can also work at high ambient temperatures.