Abstract Description: Fat, oil, and grease (FOG) deposits are responsible for 25% of Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) in the U.S., presenting a significant challenge as the nation considers upgrading its sewer infrastructure. This study investigates the potential of Fly Ash, a supplementary cementitious material, to develop alternative sewer line construction materials that minimize FOG adhesion and accumulation in sewer collection systems. Our results show that concrete incorporating Fly Ash significantly reduces FOG deposit formation.
Further, the study examines the surface formation and adhesion mechanisms of FOG deposits on various materials including concrete, Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), granite, limestone, and porous ceramic. These materials were assessed for their chemical composition, surface roughness, porosity, zeta potential, and potential for calcium hydroxide leaching. Our findings reveal that materials with high calcium hydroxide leaching potential, elevated pore pH, and low zeta potential tend to support significant FOG deposit accumulation.
The analysis suggests that to prevent FOG deposits effectively, materials used in sewer lines should be engineered to have low calcium hydroxide leaching and high zeta potential. This material redesign strategy provides crucial insights into the physical interactions that influence FOG deposit adhesion and offers a focused approach for selecting and modifying materials in sewer system renovations. Such strategic material use aims to mitigate the prevalence of Sanitary Sewer Overflows, enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of sewer systems nationwide.
