Development of Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregates Formed Using Sludge Discharged from the Drinking Water Treatment Process

Water treatment processes generate substantial sludge, presenting disposal challenges. This study explores repurposing sludge from the Demodara water treatment plant in Sri Lanka to create LECA. The nutrient-rich sludge is characterized, and its potential for LECA production is investigated. Employing a comprehensive methodology involving raw water analysis, sludge characterization, and pot experiments with chili plants using various potting media formulations, the research demonstrates the feasibility of converting water treatment sludge into LECA. Incorporating LECA into potting media enhances plant growth, showcasing economic and environmental benefits in transforming sludge into value-added products for sustainable waste management. The resulting sludge, rich in nutrients NPK and micro-nutrients, proves advantageous for soil enhancement. Evaluating six potting media treatments on chili (MICH HY1) growth under a completely randomized design, the study identifies treatment 05 (LECA + Soil mixture + Synthetic fertilizer (12:12:12)) as optimal, emphasizing the successful production and utilization of LECA from water treatment plants for enhanced potting media.