How does lime treatment affect the pH of wastewater?

Lime treatment is a common practice used in wastewater treatment to adjust the pH level of the water. When lime (calcium hydroxide) is added to acidic wastewater, it increases the pH significantly. This process is important because many biological and chemical processes in wastewater treatment function optimally within specific pH ranges.

By raising the pH, lime treatment not only helps mitigate the corrosiveness of the wastewater but also aids in the precipitation of various heavy metals and other pollutants, allowing for more effective removal of these contaminants. The increase in pH can also enhance the performance of biological treatment processes by creating a more favorable environment for microbial activity.

Overall, the significant rise in pH associated with lime treatment makes it a vital step in ensuring that the treated wastewater meets environmental regulations before being discharged or reused.