What is the predominant form of phosphorus found in wastewater?

The predominant form of phosphorus found in wastewater is inorganic phosphorus. This form primarily exists as orthophosphate and is readily available for biological uptake during the treatment process. Inorganic phosphorus is often present in dissolved form and can contribute significantly to the overall phosphorus concentration in wastewater.

This is important because inorganic phosphorus can lead to eutrophication in water bodies if it is discharged without proper treatment, which can cause excessive growth of algae and negatively affect aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the forms of phosphorus present helps wastewater treatment professionals design effective processes to remove or manage phosphorus, mitigating its environmental impact.