Sludge Generation Potential of STPs in Five Municipalities of Mato Grosso do Sul/Brazil: Estimation of the Presence of Heavy Metals and Contamination Potential

Abstract

This study aims to identify the potential for sludge generation in sewage treatment plants (STPs) in the five most populous municipalities in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, as well as to explain the presence of heavy metals and the impacts of contamination. Considering the increasing generation of sludge from STPs and the concentration of heavy metals in these activities, this research highlights the importance of qualifying and quantifying sludge as a way to prevent the various impacts on health and the environment. The methodology adopted included the characterization of sludge from each municipality, allowing the identification and quantification, in a total and segregated manner, of the main heavy metals such as Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni, Cd, As and Hg, as well as the development of a correlation between the amount of sludge generated and the population of each municipality. The results reveal the annual generation of heavy metals in each municipality, both in global values ​​and segregated by type of metal. The analysis showed that Zinc (Zn) is the predominant metal, followed by Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu), which indicates that these elements have a greater potential for accumulation in the receiving bodies. Based on these results, the study reinforces the need to develop technologies and strategies for the effective removal of these metals contained in the sludge of STPs, aiming to reduce the environmental impact and protect the water resources and biodiversity of the region.