wcm.04.2025.710.717

Eutrophication, caused by excess phosphorus in water bodies, remains a significant environmental challenge globally. This comprehensive study investigated the efficacy of direct filtration employing crushed and treated recycled glass as a novel filter medium for efficient phosphorus removal from synthetic wastewater. Our primary objective was to systematically evaluate and optimize critical operational parameters, including filtration velocity, simulated turbidity (Kaolin), coagulant (Al2(SO4)3·16H2O) dosage, and glass grain size, to establish optimal conditions for maximal phosphate removal. The research demonstrated that optimal phosphorus removal, achieving greater than 90% efficiency, was attained under direct filtration with precise pH adjustment to approximately 5.7-6.2. This was coupled with an Al/P mass ratio of around 1.3-1.57, a filtration velocity of 8 m/h, and a crushed glass granulometry ranging from 1.00-1.25 mm. The integration of a dedicated upstream flocculation stage was found to be critical for achieving these high efficiencies. Furthermore, head loss development was continuously monitored, providing valuable insights into filter run times and potential clogging mechanisms. This study conclusively illustrates the significant efficacy of crushed recycled glass as a sustainable and cost-effective filter medium for phosphorus removal, presenting a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional materials in wastewater treatment.