The influencing factors to remove phosphate were evaluated by converter slag (CS). Experiments were performed by batch tests using different CS sizes and column test. Solutions were prepared at the different pH and concentrations. The maximum removal efficiency was obtained over 98% with the finest particle size, CSa within 2 hours in batch tests. The removal efficiency was increased in the order of decreasing size with same amount of CS for any pH of solutions. The adsorption data were well fitted to Freundlich isotherm. From the column experiment, the specific factors were revealed that the breakthrough removal capacity (BRC) xb/mcs, was decreased by increasing the influent concentration. The breakthrough time, tb was lasted shorter as increasing the influent concentration. The pH drop simultaneously led to lower BRC drop during the experimental hours. The relation between the breakthrough time and the BRC to influent concentration was shown in the logarithmic decrease. Results suggested that the large surface area of CS possessed a great potential for adsorptive phosphate removal. Consequently particle size and initial concentration played the major influencing factors in phosphate removal by converter slag.

• 이상호 | Sang-Ho Lee