Phosphorous in the environment: characteristics with distribution and effects, removal mechanisms, treatment technologies, and factors affecting recovery as minerals in natural and engineered systems

Abstract

Phosphorus (P), an essential element for living cells, is present in different soluble and adsorbed chemical forms found in soil, sediment, and water. Most species are generally immobile and easily adsorbed onto soil particles. However, P is a major concern owing to its serious environmental effects (e.g., eutrophication, scale formation) when found in excess in natural or engineered environments. Commercial chemicals, fertilizers, sewage effluent, animal manure, and agricultural waste are the major sources of P pollution. But there is limited P resources worldwide. Therefore, the fate, effects, and transport of P in association with its removal, treatment, and recycling in natural and engineered systems are important. P removal and recycling technologies utilize different types of physical, biological, and chemical processes. Moreover, P minerals (struvite, vivianite, etc.) can precipitate and form scales in drinking water and wastewater systems. Hence, P minerals (e.g., struvite, vivianite etc.) are problems when left uncontrolled and unmonitored although their recovery is beneficial (e.g., slow release fertilizers, sustainable P sources, soil enhancers). Sources like wastewater, human waste, waste nutrient solution, etc. can be used for P recycling. This review paper extensively summarizes the importance and distribution of P in different environmental compartments, the effects of P in natural and engineered systems, P removal mechanisms through treatment, and recycling technologies specially focusing on various types of phosphate mineral precipitation. In particular, the factors controlling mineral (e.g., struvite and vivianite) precipitation in natural and engineered systems are also discussed.