Class Water and Effluent Treatment Techniques (Management and Treatment)

The course "Water Treatment Techniques" is part of Environmental Engineering, focusing on the analysis, selection, and application of technologies aimed at improving water quality. Its scope covers the integrated study of treatment processes for drinking water, wastewater, and industrial effluents, including conventional and emerging technologies. The course includes theoretical, laboratory, and practical components, with a technical visit to a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) to allow students to observe real operational processes. The field of intervention extends to the design and operation of treatment systems, water pollution prevention, and safe water reuse. Within the study cycle, it contributes to consolidating essential scientific and technical knowledge for the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of public health and aquatic ecosystems.

Not applicable

* Water quality: characteristic parameters, standards, and regulatory framework. * Unit operations in water and wastewater treatment: physical, physico-chemical, and biological processes. * Conventional treatment processes: sedimentation, filtration, coagulation-flocculation, and disinfection. * Biological wastewater treatment and nutrient removal. * Treatment of specific contaminants and emerging pollutants. * Water remediation strategies and water reuse. * Laboratory techniques for water analysis: determination of physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. * Technical visit to a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) to observe processes and real operational practices (To be confirmed). * Statistical treatment, validation, and interpretation of analytical results.

The course uses methodologies focused on active and experiential learning, combining theoretical classes, laboratory sessions, and field visits. Students engage in applied activities, developing skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. Direct contact with real cases and practical application of concepts promotes greater engagement, autonomy, and critical thinking.

Mendes, B.; Oliveira, J. S. – “Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano”, LIDEL, Lisboa, 2004; Metcalf & Eddy – “Wastewater Engineering: Treatment and Reuse”, McGraw-Hill, New York, 2014; Comissão Sectorial para a Água (CS/04) – “A Problemática do Chumbo na Água de Consumo Humano”, Instituto Português da Qualidade; 2002; Droste, R.; Gehr, R.; Theory and Practice of Water and Wastewater Treatment; John Wiley & Sons, 2018.