Comparison of Inland Brine Disposal Options

This paper explores the application of different treatment processes for three ethanol refineries in the United States and their respective waste residuals management solutions, which include discharging to storage ponds, a surface water receiving stream, and a mechanical zero liquid discharge (ZLD) system. In addition, this paper discusses how the amount of brine treatment and disposal equipment needed, and their costs, varies depending on the quality of the source water as well as the quality and size of the sewer or water body used to discharge the industrial wastewater generated.