Large-scale piloting to innovate thoughtfully
The team considered all the options, from classic to innovative, and piloted PAA at a large scale to confirm its effectiveness.
Practices
Markets
Helping Memphis use the power of peracetic acid for better disinfection
Peracetic acid has strong oxidation potential and achieves disinfection more rapidly in lower doses, but it was an innovative choice mostly known for its use in industrial applications like poultry processing. By piloting PAA against two more traditional methods, CDM Smith experts were able to demonstrate that it would be the most effective option for Memphis to treat challenging industrial wastewater and return it sustainably to the Mississippi River.
Implementation at two major facilities
Both the T.E. Maxson and M.C. Stiles facilities were upgraded through this project, treating over 400 mgd of total flows.
Managing Memphis’ unique water quality
60% of the city’s flow and load is from industrial sources, challenging to treat. PAA proved up to the task.
Leading the way in PAA application
When this project began, PAA was only used at two facilities in the US. With this project’s success, it’s now an option nationwide.
The CDM Smith team also helped Memphis tap federal funding to make this project possible. USEPA provided a $156 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) for upgrades to the Maxson facility. The loan, secured with help from CDM Smith’s funding and wastewater technical delivery experts, will help finance the city’s upgrades, support the city’s growth, protect public health and bolster continued economic development throughout Memphis.
The completed projects will significantly improve effluent water quality and loading to the Mississippi River, provide reliable, efficient biosolids treatment, improve process efficiency and operability and improve overall plant odor control. The funding will also provide an attractive long-term low-interest loan that will be beneficial to the rate payers of Memphis.