Sludge

[edit] Introduction

The term sludge (or slurry) refers to a range of semi-solid/semi-liquid substances or deposits. In the United States, sewage sludge is sometimes referred to as septage (when associated with sludge from septic tanks).

[edit] Types of sludge

In the construction industry, sludge is often produced during the excavation process as a type of mud with a high water content.

Sludge can also be generated by activities such as industrial wastewater treatment using biological or chemical processes. Industrial sludge can sometimes be produced in solid form, such as sewage sludge from wastewater treatment or faecal sludge from pit latrines and septic tanks.

[edit] Managing sludge

Generally, sludge contains a significant amount of liquid (which is primarily water). Once it is treated and the liquid is removed, some types of dried sludge can be used as a form of fertiliser.

Food and beverage sludge can sometimes be converted into animal feed.

The use of raw sewage sludge is being explored by scientists as a possible building material.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Biosolids.
• Dewatering construction sites.
• Legionnaires' disease.
• The use of concrete structures to protect construction sites.
• Waste water.
• Wheel washing system.