DESC:This patent application claims priority benefit of Indian Provisional Patent Application No: 202341062263 entitled “A FLOATING / HDPE LINER BASED SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR WATER BODIES”, filed on 15th September 2023. The entire contents of the patent application is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of wastewater treatment, and more specifically, focusing on sewage treatment plants designed for water bodies such as lakes, rivers, drains, open areas, and Nalas (drainage channels). More particularly, the invention pertains to a floating sewage treatment plant to operate and treat the existing lakes and nalas. The method also adopts using a HDPE liner to treat the wastewater entering into the lakes.

BACKGROUND
[002] Effective wastewater treatment plays a vital role in safeguarding the environment and human health. The increasing pollution of water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, drains, open areas, and Nalas (drainage channels), due to untreated sewage poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and public well-being. Consequently, the need for efficient sewage treatment plants tailored for these water bodies has become increasingly important.

[003] Various wastewater treatment technologies and systems have been developed to address this pressing issue. Conventional methods, including activated sludge processes, trickling filters, and oxidation ponds, have been extensively employed to treat sewage in urban and rural areas. These technologies are effective to some extent but often encounter challenges when applied to water bodies.

[004] One of the key challenges faced by existing sewage treatment systems is their limited adaptability to water bodies. The unique characteristics of water bodies, such as dynamic water levels, varying flow rates, and fluctuating water quality, demand specialized treatment plants that can effectively operate in these environments. Conventional systems designed for on-land use face difficulties in providing optimal treatment efficiency in water bodies.

[005] Moreover, the lack of proper containment and isolation of the treatment process poses a risk of untreated sewage discharge into water bodies, exacerbating the contamination and polluting the ecosystem. Leakage, seepage, and inadequate containment structures associated with conventional treatment plants contribute to environmental hazards and require frequent maintenance. Furthermore, the high capital and operational costs of existing technologies often limit their widespread implementation, especially in developing regions facing budgetary constraints. The need for a cost-effective and sustainable sewage treatment solution for water bodies is more critical than ever.

[006] In light of these challenges, there is a pressing necessity for an advanced improved system that addresses the specific requirements of sewage treatment in water bodies. Such a system should incorporate high-end technical features that ensure efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment. The present invention, a Floating/HDPE Liner-Based Sewage Treatment Plant for Water Bodies, aims to fulfill this need by introducing a novel approach that overcomes the limitations of conventional systems and provides an effective and adaptable solution for sewage treatment in water bodies.

SUMMARY
[007] The following invention presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[008] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a floating sewage treatment plant utilizing a floating based treatment plant/Using a HPDE Linear based treatment system for immediate deployment of treatment solutions in less time. The various technologies are adopted for treating the lake wastewater using MBR/MBBR/IFAS/A20/Activated sludge/Extended Aeration/Ozonation/Territory Filtration

[009] The objective of the present disclosure is to effectively remove contaminants, pathogens, and pollutants from sewage, thereby enhancing the overall water quality of the surrounding environment.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to design a floating system that allows for easy relocation to areas with urgent wastewater treatment needs or changing water conditions, ensuring adaptability and efficient resource allocation.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to eliminate the need for extensive onshore infrastructure, reducing land use and construction costs associated with sewage treatment plants.

[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to prevent sewage discharge directly into water bodies, mitigating the impact on sensitive ecosystems and preserving the environment.

[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to create a modular design that enables scalability based on the required treatment capacity, making the system suitable for various population sizes and areas.

[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy consumption and operation of the treatment plant.

[0015] Another objective of the present disclosure is to integrate energy-efficient technologies and energy recovery systems to optimize resource utilization, reduce overall environmental impact, and promote sustainability.

[0016] Another objective of the present disclosure is to harness renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to power the treatment plant and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thereby demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

[0017] Another objective of the present disclosure is to address wastewater treatment needs while promoting ecological balance, protecting water bodies from pollution, and ensuring sustainable water management practices.

[0018] Another objective of the present disclosure is to contribute to global efforts in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices in wastewater treatment.

[0019] Another objective of the present disclosure is to utilize solar power and other renewable energy sources to reduce operational costs, decrease the carbon footprint, and promote sustainable operation of the treatment plant.

[0020] Another objective of the present disclosure is to design a floating system powered by solar energy that can be deployed in remote or off-grid locations without requiring extensive power infrastructure.

[0021] Another objective of the present disclosure is to incorporate an energy storage system that ensures uninterrupted operation, even during periods of limited solar irradiation or power outages, ensuring reliability and resilience of the treatment plant.

[0022] Another objective of the present disclosure is to convert sludge, previously considered waste, into a valuable resource for sustainable plant growth and nutrient recycling, minimizing waste and promoting circular economy principles.

[0023] Another objective of the present disclosure is to reduce the volume of sludge requiring disposal, minimize the environmental burden associated with sludge management, and enhance soil fertility and structure by utilizing sludge-derived organic matter.

[0024] Another objective of the present disclosure is to support the establishment of green spaces by utilizing sludge-derived fertilizers, contributing to biodiversity, aesthetics, and overall environmental enhancement.

[0025] Another objective of the present disclosure is to reduce the need for external fertilizers, resulting in potential cost savings for landscaping and plant growth initiatives, while maintaining effective wastewater treatment.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides a floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant designed to address wastewater management in water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. The system utilizes innovative technology to efficiently treat sewage and prevent pollution while minimizing the impact on the environment.

[0027] Another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a buoyant structure that can be anchored in place or move with the water currents, ensuring flexibility and adaptability.

[0028] According to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a floating HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant for treating sewage from a water bodies including a floating HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant for treating sewage from a water bodies includes a floating structure lined with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to contain treated wastewater.

[0029] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a preliminary treatment stage configured with screens, grit chambers, and sedimentation tanks for removing large debris and grit from incoming sewage.

[0030] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a primary treatment stage including primary settling tanks designed to allow solid particles and suspended organic matter to settle, forming sludge that is removable.

[0031] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a secondary treatment stage equipped with processes selected from the group consisting of activated sludge processes, trickling filters, and rotating biological contactors to encourage the growth of microorganisms that consume dissolved and colloidal organic matter and nutrients.

[0032] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a tertiary treatment process employing advanced filtration, disinfection, or chemical precipitation processes for the removal of specific contaminants from the secondary effluent.

[0033] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a sludge management for collecting and processing the sludge generated during the treatment process, wherein the sludge undergoes anaerobic digestion or mechanical dewatering to reduce its volume and stabilize it.

[0034] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a nutrient recovery system to transform the stabilized sludge into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for promoting plant growth in the surrounding environment.

[0035] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, integrated renewable energy sources, including solar panels, to generate clean electricity for the treatment plant's operations.

[0036] According to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, sensors and remote monitoring systems for continuously monitoring water quality parameters throughout the treatment process to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

[0037] Another exemplary embodiment, the system incorporates advanced treatment processes, including preliminary treatment, primary treatment, secondary treatment, tertiary treatment, sludge treatment and disposal, disinfection, and effluent discharge.

[0038] Another exemplary embodiment, the system integrates energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact and achieve a net-zero carbon footprint through optimized energy consumption and renewable energy generation.

[0039] Another exemplary embodiment, a net-zero floating/Liner based sewage treatment plant designed to treat wastewater in water bodies while achieving a net-zero carbon footprint through energy efficiency and renewable energy integration.

[0040] Another exemplary embodiment, liners made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) can be used to line sewage ponds or basins to treat effluent at the edge of a natural lake, pond or river. The untreated wastewater entering the lake/river/pond will be temporarily diverted to the HDPE linear sewage treatment system to create the hydraulic retention time. The liner functions as a barrier to contain the treated wastewater within the pond or basin. This aids in preventing potential environmental contamination.

[0041] Another exemplary embodiment, the sewage first goes through a preliminary treatment stage, where large objects like debris, rocks, and grit are removed using screens, grit chambers, and sedimentation tanks. This step helps prevent damage to downstream equipment and reduces the load on the subsequent treatment processes.

[0042] Another exemplary embodiment, primary treatment stage wherein the wastewater enters primary settling tanks or sedimentation basins, where solid particles and suspended organic matter settle down to form a sludge. The settled sludge is then removed for further treatment or disposal. The partially treated wastewater, known as primary effluent, moves on to the next treatment step.

[0043] Another exemplary embodiment, the secondary treatment stage focuses on removing dissolved and colloidal organic matter, as well as nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Common secondary treatment methods include activated sludge process, trickling filters, or rotating biological contactors. These processes facilitate the growth of microorganisms that consume organic matter and convert it into a more stable form.

[0044] Another exemplary embodiment, a tertiary treatment process may be employed to remove specific contaminants, such as excess nutrients, pathogens, heavy metals, or organic compounds. This stage may involve additional filtration, disinfection, advanced oxidation, or chemical precipitation processes.

[0045] Another exemplary embodiment, the sludge generated during the treatment process undergoes further treatment, such as anaerobic digestion, aerobic digestion, or mechanical dewatering, to reduce its volume and stabilize it. The resulting biosolids may be used for land application as fertilizer or sent to a landfill.

[0046] Another exemplary embodiment, after the completion of the treatment processes, the treated wastewater undergoes disinfection to kill or inactivate any remaining pathogens. Common disinfection methods include chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, or ozonation. Once disinfected, the treated effluent can be safely discharged into receiving waters or reused for non-potable purposes like irrigation or industrial processes.

[0047] Another exemplary embodiment, the system combines advanced treatment processes, energy-efficient technologies, and renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability. A solar-powered plant designed to efficiently treat wastewater in water bodies while utilizing renewable energy from the sun by using a floating/fixed solar mechanism. The system may combines floating treatment infrastructure with solar panels to achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly wastewater management.

[0048] In yet another exemplary embodiment, a sludge utilization system integrated with the floating sewage treatment plant that converts the sludge generated during the treatment process into a valuable resource for plant growth and environmental sustainability. The system employs innovative methods to transform sludge into nutrient-rich organic matter, promoting plant growth and minimizing waste generation.

[0049] Another exemplary embodiment, incorporates advanced treatment processes such as biological treatment, filtration, disinfection, and nutrient removal to achieve high-quality effluent.

[0050] Another exemplary embodiment, equipped with sensors and monitoring systems to continuously assess water quality parameters and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

[0051] Another exemplary embodiment, implements energy-efficient components, advanced process controls, and optimized operational strategies to minimize energy consumption throughout the treatment process.

[0052] Another exemplary embodiment, incorporates renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydro power to generate clean electricity for the treatment plant's operation, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy.

[0053] Another exemplary embodiment, utilizes innovative technologies like anaerobic digestion or heat recovery systems to extract energy from organic waste or wastewater to power internal processes or generate additional renewable energy.

[0054] Another exemplary embodiment, implements strategies to offset any remaining carbon emissions through initiatives like tree planting, carbon sequestration, or renewable energy credits to achieve net-zero carbon footprint.

[0055] Another exemplary embodiment, conducts a comprehensive life cycle assessment to identify areas for further emissions reduction, energy optimization, and sustainable material choices. - Photovoltaic (PV) Panels: Integrated solar panels placed on the floating structure harness solar energy and convert it into electricity to power various components of the treatment plant.

[0056] Another exemplary embodiment, incorporates battery storage systems to store excess solar energy for continuous operation during periods of low sunlight or at night.

[0057] Another exemplary embodiment, implements smart power management systems to optimize energy usage and ensure seamless operation of treatment processes.

[0058] Another exemplary embodiment, equipped with remote monitoring systems to track energy production, system performance, and operational parameters, allowing for real-time control and adjustments.

[0059] Another exemplary embodiment, integrated solar panels placed on the floating structure harness solar energy and convert it into electricity to power various components of the treatment plant.

[0060] Another exemplary embodiment, implements specialized processes such as anaerobic digestion, composting, or dewatering to treat and stabilize the sludge, ensuring its suitability for plant growth.

[0061] Another exemplary embodiment, extracts and recycles essential nutrients from the sludge, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to create a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer.

[0062] Another exemplary embodiment, utilizes the nutrient-rich sludge-derived fertilizer to support the growth of various plants, including vegetation on the floating treatment plant or nearby green spaces.

[0063] Another exemplary embodiment, demonstrates a closed-loop system by repurposing sludge, reducing waste generation, and contributing to environmental sustainability.

[0064] Another exemplary embodiment, reduces the environmental impact of sludge disposal by transforming it into a valuable resource for plant cultivation, minimizing the need for chemical fertilizers.

[0065] The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant may find potential applications in various areas. In ecologically sensitive reserves and environmentally protected areas, the implementation of net-zero sewage treatment may be crucial to maintain ecological integrity and minimize the environmental impact. These plants may contribute to sustainable communities that strive for a net-zero or low-carbon footprint, providing them with environmentally friendly wastewater treatment solutions aligned with their sustainability goals. Moreover, the integration of net-zero treatment facilities into climate-resilient infrastructure projects may enhance environmental resilience and sustainability.

[0066] In remote or off-grid areas with limited access to traditional electricity supply, these sewage treatment plants may offer reliable and efficient solutions for wastewater management. They may be particularly beneficial for island communities that may rely on sustainable energy sources and require effective wastewater treatment. Furthermore, in eco-tourism sites, implementing solar-powered sewage treatment systems may support sustainable tourism practices, ensuring the protection of ecologically sensitive areas.

[0067] The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant also has potential applications in various water bodies. It may be employed in lakes, reservoirs, and river systems to address sewage management and prevent contamination and downstream pollution. Coastal areas, where traditional sewage infrastructure may be limited, may benefit from these systems to manage wastewater effectively. Additionally, in emergency situations and disaster-stricken areas, these plants may provide temporary wastewater treatment capabilities, offering rapid response solutions to ensure public health and environmental safety.

[0068] Beyond wastewater treatment, these plants may contribute to urban landscaping and waterfront beautification by utilizing nutrient-rich sludge-derived fertilizers. They may enhance green areas, parks, and gardens within urban environments, promoting plant growth and creating aesthetically pleasing surroundings. Moreover, the use of sludge-derived fertilizers may support ecological restoration efforts, facilitating plant establishment in degraded ecosystems and contributing to overall environmental rehabilitation. Community gardening initiatives may also benefit from the availability of sustainable fertilizer, promoting local food production and community engagement.

[0069] In summary, the floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant may have potential applications in various areas, including ecological reserves, sustainable communities, green building projects, climate-resilient developments, remote areas, island communities, eco-tourism sites, offshore installations, recreational water bodies, river systems, coastal areas, emergency situations, urban landscaping, waterfront beautification, ecological restoration, and community gardening. Its adaptability and environmentally friendly features make it a versatile solution for effective wastewater treatment in various contexts.

[0070] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the floating structure is modular, allowing for scalability to accommodate different population sizes and treatment capacities.

[0071] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the preliminary treatment stage further includes a pump system for transporting the sewage through the treatment stages.

[0072] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the primary settling tanks are designed with adjustable baffles to enhance the settling process and optimize sludge removal.

[0073] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the secondary treatment stage incorporates an aeration system to enhance the growth of microorganisms in the activated sludge processes.

[0074] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the tertiary treatment process utilizes ultraviolet (UV) light for disinfection to further improve effluent quality.

[0075] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the sludge management system includes a biogas recovery component that captures methane produced during anaerobic digestion for energy use.

[0076] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the nutrient recovery system employs techniques selected from the group consisting of struvite crystallization and nutrient extraction to create the organic fertilizer.

[0077] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the integrated renewable energy sources further include wind turbines to supplement energy generation.

[0078] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the sensors and remote monitoring systems are connected to a centralized control unit for real-time data analysis and decision-making.

[0079] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, the system is designed to be operational in remote or off-grid areas with limited access to traditional electricity supply.

[0080] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, a method for treating sewage in a floating HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant, comprising: receiving sewage from a water body into a preliminary treatment stage, wherein large debris and grit are removed using screens, grit chambers, and sedimentation tanks; directing the partially treated sewage to a primary treatment stage, wherein solid particles and suspended organic matter settle in primary settling tanks, forming a sludge that is subsequently removed;

[0081] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, transferring the primary effluent to a secondary treatment stage, wherein microorganisms are encouraged to grow and consume dissolved and colloidal organic matter, as well as nutrients, through processes selected from the group consisting of activated sludge processes, trickling filters, and rotating biological contactors.

[0082] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, processing the secondary effluent through a tertiary treatment process to remove specific contaminants, wherein advanced filtration, disinfection, or chemical precipitation processes are employed.

[0083] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, collecting the sludge generated during the treatment process and subjecting it to a sludge management system, wherein the sludge undergoes anaerobic digestion or mechanical dewatering to reduce its volume and stabilize it.

[0084] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, transforming the stabilized sludge into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for use in promoting plant growth in the surrounding environment.

[0085] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, integrating renewable energy sources, including solar panels, to provide clean electricity for the treatment plant's operations while minimizing the environmental impact.

[0086] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, monitoring water quality parameters continuously using sensors and remote monitoring systems to ensure compliance with environmental standards throughout the treatment process.

,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant for treating sewage from a water bodies, comprising:

a floating structure lined with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to contain treated wastewater;

a preliminary treatment stage configured with screens, grit chambers, and sedimentation tanks for removing large debris and grit from incoming sewage;

a primary treatment stage including primary settling tanks designed to allow solid particles and suspended organic matter to settle, forming sludge that is removable;

a secondary treatment stage equipped with processes selected from the group consisting of activated sludge processes, trickling filters, and rotating biological contactors to encourage the growth of microorganisms that consume dissolved and colloidal organic matter and nutrients;

a tertiary treatment process employing advanced filtration, disinfection, or chemical precipitation processes for the removal of specific contaminants from the secondary effluent;

a sludge management for collecting and processing the sludge generated during the treatment process, wherein the sludge undergoes anaerobic digestion or mechanical dewatering to reduce its volume and stabilize it;

a nutrient recovery system to transform the stabilized sludge into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for promoting plant growth in the surrounding environment;

integrated renewable energy sources, including solar panels, to generate clean electricity for the treatment plant's operations; and

sensors and remote monitoring systems for continuously monitoring water quality parameters throughout the treatment process to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

2. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the floating structure is modular, allowing for scalability to accommodate different population sizes and treatment capacities.

3. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the preliminary treatment stage further includes a pump system for transporting the sewage through the treatment stages.

4. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the primary settling tanks are designed with adjustable baffles to enhance the settling process and optimize sludge removal.

5. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the secondary treatment stage incorporates an aeration system to enhance the growth of microorganisms in the activated sludge processes.

6. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the tertiary treatment process utilizes ultraviolet (UV) light for disinfection to further improve effluent quality.

7. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the sludge management system includes a biogas recovery component that captures methane produced during anaerobic digestion for energy use.

8. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the nutrient recovery system employs techniques selected from the group consisting of struvite crystallization and nutrient extraction to create the organic fertilizer.

9. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the integrated renewable energy sources further include wind turbines to supplement energy generation.

10. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the sensors and remote monitoring systems are connected to a centralized control unit for real-time data analysis and decision-making.

11. The floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant of claim 1, wherein the system is designed to be operational in remote or off-grid areas with limited access to traditional electricity supply.

12. A method for treating sewage in a floating/HDPE liner-based sewage treatment plant, comprising:

receiving sewage from a water bodies into a preliminary treatment stage, wherein large debris and grit are removed using screens, grit chambers, and sedimentation tanks;

directing the partially treated sewage to a primary treatment stage, wherein solid particles and suspended organic matter settle in primary settling tanks, forming a sludge that is subsequently removed;

transferring the primary effluent to a secondary treatment stage, wherein microorganisms are encouraged to grow and consume dissolved and colloidal organic matter, as well as nutrients, through processes selected from the group consisting of activated sludge processes, trickling filters, and rotating biological contactors;

processing the secondary effluent through a tertiary treatment process to remove specific contaminants, wherein advanced filtration, disinfection, or chemical precipitation processes are employed;

collecting the sludge generated during the treatment process and subjecting it to a sludge management system, wherein the sludge undergoes anaerobic digestion or mechanical dewatering to reduce its volume and stabilize it;

transforming the stabilized sludge into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for use in promoting plant growth in the surrounding environment;

integrating renewable energy sources, including solar panels, to provide clean electricity for the treatment plant's operations while minimizing the environmental impact; and

monitoring water quality parameters continuously using sensors and remote monitoring systems to ensure compliance with environmental standards throughout the treatment process.