• Clean Technology
• /
• v.7 no.1
• /
• pp.75-80
• /
• 2001

In this study, hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) plating wastewater in strong acidic condition was treated by reduction and alkalization. Ferrous sulfate ($FeSO_4$), known to reduce Cr(VI) to Cr(III) rapidly at acidic pH, was used as a reductant of Cr(VI). The optimum reduction condition of Cr(VI) was observed at iron to chromium dose ratio of 3:1 by mole concentration. The precipitation of Cr(III) as $Cr(OH)_3$, was achieved by the pH adjustment in the limestone aeration bed. The precipitates were removed less than the upper limit of chromium for effluent at pH over 5.0. The continuous removal of Cr(VI) was performed using the process consisting of reduction vessel, limestone aeration bed, and sedimentation tank coupled with metal screen membrane. As pH was maintained around 5.0 in the limestone aeration bed, insoluble chromic hydroxide flocs was formed continuously. Most chromic hydroxide flocs were filtered by the metal screen membrane with 1450 mesh size, and the treated water to meet the upper limits of chromium for effluent (Cr Conc. 0.25~0.90 mg/l) was obtained in 30 minutes. Periodic backwashing decreased the fouling on the membrane rapidly.