Physicochemical and biological characteristics of domestic effluents

The collection and treatment of sewage is still a worldwide challenge. The use of water for public supply and the consequent return of the same, discharged or served to the water body, is an important source of pollution. Domestic sewage presents fecal contamination and a high concentration of detergents, oils, grease, etc. Sanitation is the control of all factors in the environment that have or can have harmful effects on human physical, mental, and social well-being. Domestic effluent is that which comes mainly from residences, commercial establishments, institutions, or any building that has facilities such as bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. It is a function of the use to which it has been subjected and varies with: the climate, the social and economic situation, and the habits of the population. The parameters define the quality of the sewage. Domestic effluents are composed by the presence of: sand, gravel, garbage from rain drainage and dissolved mineral substances.