Benefits of using selective inhibition to remove nitrogen from highly nitrogenous wastes

Abstract Continuous‐flow, activated sludge systems and a batch test showed that nitrite reduction rates were 63% higher than nitrate reduction rates; COD consumption rates were 40% lower for nitrite reduction than for nitrate reduction; and biomass production up to 300% lower with the reduction of nitrite than with nitrate. Nitrite build‐up was achieved by selectively inhibiting the nitrite oxidation step.