Paper of Final Assignment – Akamigas Balongan

WASTE TREATMENT OF LIQUID

WITH ACTIVE MUD METHOD
AT PT PAPERTECH INDONESIA - SUBANG
Nurah Ratna Dewi*), Indah Dhamayanthie, Farlina Hapsari

Chemical Engineering D-III, AKAMIGAS BALONGAN, Indramayu 45216, Indonesia

*)
E-mail: nurahratnadewi953@gmail.com

________________________________________________________________________________

Abstrak

PT Papertech Indonesia Jl. Raya Cipeundeuy Km 1, Desa Cipeundeuy, Subang, Jawa Barat, Indonesia, yang
menghasilkan produk kertas, dimana proses-proses pembuatan kertas tersebut menghasilkan limbah cair. Limbah cair
membutuhkan pengolahan lebih lanjut mengetahui kebutuhan makanan mikroorganisme, mengetahui usia lumpur, dan
menghitung kemampuan clarifier dalam proses pengedapan. Adapun Parameter pengolahan limbah cair dengan lumpur
aktif antara lain persen penurunan BOD, F/M ratio dan Sludge Age (umur lumpur). F/M ratio menunjukan jumlah zat
organik (BOD) yang hilang dibagi dengan jumlah mikroorganisme di dalam bak aerasi. Tinggi rendahnya F/M ratio
dipengaruhi oleh BOD dan MLSS yang terkandung dalam air limbah. MLSS ya ng tinggi akan menyebabkan nilai F/M
ratio yang rendah. Hasil pembahasan persen penurunan BOD yang terdapat pada bak aerasi 96,60%, Nilai F/M ratio
pada bak aerasi 0,12 kg.BOD/kg.MLSS, dan Umur lumpur pada bak aerasi 7 hari.
Kata kunci: aerasi, F/M ratio, limbah cair, persen penurunan BOD, umur lumpur.

Abstract
PT Papertech Indonesia Jl. Raya Cipeundeuy Km 1, Cipeundeuy Village, Subang, West Java, Indonesia, which
produces paper products, where the paper-making processes produce liquid waste. Liquid waste requires further
processing, to know the food requirements of microorganisms, to know the age of the sludge, and calculating the ability
of the clarifier in the sealing process. The parameters for treating liquid waste with activated sludge include the percent
reduction in BOD, F/M ratio, and Sludge Age (sludge age). The F/M ratio shows the amount of organic matter (BOD)
lost divided by the number of microorganisms in the aeration bath. The level of the F/M ratio is influenced by BOD and
MLSS contained in wastewater. A high MLSS will cause a low F/M ratio. The results of the discussion of the percent
reduction in BOD found in the aeration tub are 96.60%, the value of the F/M ratio in the aeration bath is 0.12
kg.BOD/kg.MLSS and the age of the sludge in the aeration bath are 7 days.
Keywords: aeration, F/M ratio, liquid waste,The percent reduction in BOD, age of sludge.

Nurah Ratna Dewi

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1. Introduction
The pulp and paper industry is an industrial activity
that has the potential to cause environmental pollution.
The impact on the environment that is most felt in the
production of liquid waste which can cause wider
environmental damage, if not managed properly. The
source of liquid waste from the pulp and paper industry
comes from all stages of the process, both in the pulp-
making process and the paper-making process. The
amount and properties vary depending on the raw
materials, processes and technology used and the type
of paper produced. The biological treatment of
wastewater with suspended culture systems is widely
used worldwide for domestic wastewater treatment.
This process is principally an aerobic process in which
organic compounds are oxidized to CO2, H2O, NH4,
and new biomass cells. The source of oxygen can be
obtained using aeration. The most commonly used
suspended culture wastewater treatment system is the
Activated Sludge Process (Activated Sludge System).
Based on the title that we will discuss, the specific
objectives of this Final assignment are.
1. To know the food requirements for microorganisms.
2. To know the age of the mud.
3. Able to calculate the ability of the clarifier in the
settling process.
2. Pundamental Theory
2.1 Paper Industry Waste
In the paper-making process, some substances have the
potential to pollute the environment. Paper-making
process waste that has the potential to pollute the
environment is divided into 3 groups, namely :
1. Liquid waste, which consists of:
a. Dissolved colloidal organic compounds such as
hemicellulose, sugar, alcohol, lignin, most
importantly, fiber breakdown agents, starch
adhesives, and synthetic substances that produce
high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD).
b. Inorganic materials such as NaOH, FeCl3, H3PO4,
Urea, and Ammonia.
2. A Gas consisting of :
a. Foul-smelling sulfur gases such as mercaptan and
H2S are released from various stages in the kraft
pulping and chemical recovery processes.
b. Vapors that interfere with visibility.
3. Solid waste consisting of :
a. Sludge from sewage treatment
The pulp and paper industry is one of the industries
that produce solid waste which is quite large. The
largest contribution from solid waste is fiber sludge
from the pulp and paper industry. Pulp and paper
industrial waste fibers originating from wastewater
treatment systems. Mud waste which has a solids
content of around 20-30%, which has been handled in
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piles at the factory location on certain land, and is
disposed of as landfill at times.
2.2 Sources and Characteristics of Paper Industry
Liquid Waste
2.1.1 Parameters of paper industry wastewater
pollution
The parameters of paper industry wastewater pollution
are as follows:
a. Total Suspended Solid (TSS)
Organic and inorganic solids are suspended. The
content of suspended substances contained in water
with a size of> 0.45 , which is shown in units of mg /
L (ppm).
b. Power of Hydrogen (pH)
A measure of the hydrogen ion concentration that
indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. The
pH value varies from 1 to 14. A neutral solution has a
pH = 7, an acidic solution has a pH less than 7, and an
alkaline solution has a pH greater than 7.
c. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Dissolved oxygen-consuming organic material which is
biodegradable by aerobic microbes. The amount of
oxygen needed by microorganisms to break down
organic compounds within a certain period time,
expressed in mg / L (usually expressed in 5 days at
temperature 20)
d. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
Complex organic materials that consume oxygen, are
difficult or cannot be bio-integrated by microbes. The
amount of oxygen needed to oxidize organic
compounds is expressed in mg / L.
2.1.2 Source of discharge of paper industry
wastewater
Sources of paper industry wastewater discharge [1]:
- Preparation of raw materials
- Stock preparations
- Paper machine
2.2 Paper Industry Waste Treatment
The processing of paper industrial waste is divided into
two types, namely processing based on its form and
based on the process. Here's the process:
2.3.1 Processing based on its form
a. Liquid Waste Treatment
Liquid waste generated from the production process is
processed using a Wastewater Treatment Plant (IPAL).
The liquid waste treatment system based on its
operating unit can be divided into three, namely:
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1) Physical
In this operating unit, one of the things handled is the
screening process. Screening is an efficient and
inexpensive way to remove large suspended materials.
2) Chemical
Chemical wastewater treatment is usually carried out to
remove particles that are difficult to settle, phosphorus
compounds, heavy metals, and toxic organic
substances. It is named chemically because in this
process a chemical is needed that will change the
nature of the solute from very dissolved to undissolved
or from very fine size to floc which can be deposited or
separated by filtration.
3) Biology
The main purpose of biological wastewater treatment is
to agglomerate and remove or decompose dissolved
organic solids that are biodegradable by utilizing the
activity of microorganisms.
Biological treatment reduces toxicity and improves the
aesthetic quality of the waste (odor, color, irritant
potency, and taste of water). Liquid waste quality
standards that have been set by the government based
on the Minister of Environment and Forestry
Regulation No. 5/2014 for pulp mills, namely pH
tolerance in the range of 6.0-9.0, BOD: 90 mg/l, COD:
175 mg/l, and TSS 80 mg/l.
b. Solid Waste Treatment
The pulp industry generally produces solid waste in the
form of rock from lime and contains soda. It must be
disposed of in the environment safely and comfortably.
The solid waste must be disposed of in a secure landfill
(safe) landfill. The other two types of solid waste are
treated using Bark Boiler and Lime Klin. Bark Boiler is
used for burning bark. Meanwhile, Lime Klin is used
for lime sludge processing.
4. Air Emission Wastewater Treatment
For waste in the form of air emissions resulting from
the pulp production process, usually the pulp mill uses
tools in the form of blow gas treatment in the pulping
unit, Electro Static Dust Precipitator in the Recovery
Boiler, and Wet Scrubber in the Recausticizing Unit.
2.3.2 Liquid Waste Treatment Process
a. Primary processing
Primary processing aims to remove solid materials that
settle or float. Primary treatment consists of steps to
separate water from the solid waste by letting the solids
settle or separating floating solid parts. This primary
treatment can remove some BOD and suspended solids
as well as some organic components. This primary
processing of liquid waste is usually inadequate and
further processing is still needed.
b. Secondary Processing
Secondary processing of wastewater is a process of
biological decomposition of solids. The effective
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application will be able to remove most of the
suspended solids and BOD. There are 2 processes in
secondary processing, namely:
1) Trickle Filters
The trickle filter uses a layer of rock and gravel
wherein the liquid waste flows slowly through this
layer. With the help of bacteria that grow on rocks and
gravel, it will consume most of the organic materials.
2) Activated Sludge
The speed of bacterial activity can be increased by
introducing air and sludge containing bacteria into the
tank so that it has more contact with the treated liquid
waste in the primary treatment process. During this
process, organic waste is broken down into simpler
compounds by bacteria that are present in activated
sludge.
c. Tertiary Processing
The primary and secondary processing of wastewater
can reduce the BOD of water and eliminate harmful
bacteria. However, this process cannot remove
dissolved organic and inorganic components. Therefore
it needs to be equipped with tertiary processing [2].
2.4 Wastewater Treatment Method with Activated
Sludge
The biological treatment of wastewater with suspended
culture systems is widely used worldwide for domestic
wastewater treatment. This process is principally an
aerobic process in which organic compounds are
oxidized into CO2, H2O, NH4, and new biomass cells.
The source of oxygen can be obtained using aeration.
The most commonly used suspended culture
wastewater treatment system is the Activated Sludge
Process.
The wastewater treatment system with activated sludge
is divided into two, namely the artificial activated
sludge method and the natural activated sludge method.
The artificial activated sludge method is at the
beginning of the process using seeds or seeds, while
the natural activated sludge method is sludge formed
from its wastewater media. Wastewater is a structure
designed to remove biological and chemical waste
from the water, allowing it to be used for other
activities.
Some of the characteristics of this process are the high
quality of the output water. However, this process is
quite difficult to apply compared to other waste
handling methods due to the complicated technology
and higher consumption of electrical energy for the
aeration process. Currently, the activated sludge
process is often used in the treatment of waste resulting
from anaerobic reactors. This system is thought to
reduce energy consumption and produce less residual
sludge.
The objectives of handling with the activated sludge
process include BOD removal, nitrification, and
denitrification. In BOD removal, the waste feed is
metabolized by microbes in activated sludge as a
substrate so that it is converted into biomass, water,
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carbon dioxide, and other gases. In the nitrification
process, the oxidation of ammonia to nitrite and nitrate
occurs by bacteria. Meanwhile, in the denitrification
process, nitrite and nitrate are converted to gas,
especially nitrogen gas.
Biomass is separated in the secondary sedimentation
tank so that it undergoes flocculation and deposition.
This causes bacteria, protozoa, and other
microorganisms to form macroscopic floc so that they
can be sedimentation. The attachment of these
microorganisms is assisted by the polysaccharide
matrix produced by these microbes. Activated sludge
floc can be seen in Figure 1.
Figure 1 Activated Sludge Floc [3]
Four main processes occur in the activated sludge
system, including the aeration tank, settling tank,
sludge recirculation, and removal of residual sludge.
Biochemical reactions with the organic components of
the sludge are in the biological reactor (aeration tank).
Biomass is formed due to the presence of a substrate in
the mud. The precipitation of biomass takes place in
the secondary settling tank.
The solid part in the tank is then circulated into the
aeration tank to maintain the concentration of biomass
in the reactor so that it affects the efficiency of the
system. The residual sludge from this treatment is then
directed to the sludge treatment plant. So it can be seen
that there are three types of sludge involved in this
process, namely residual sludge, biomass sludge in the
aeration tank, and secondary sludge in the settling tank.
Before entering the process, wastewater can be
deposited in the initial settling basin. The initial settling
basin functions to reduce suspended solids by around
30-40% and BOD by about 25%. Runoff water from
the initial settling basin flows into the aeration bath by
gravity. In this aeration bath, the wastewater is blown
with air so that the microorganisms break down the
organic substances present in the wastewater. The
energy obtained by these microorganisms is used by
microbes to carry out growth so that in the aeration
bath there is a development of large amounts of
biomass.
These microorganisms will decompose pollutant
compounds in wastewater. The water then flows to a
secondary settling tank. In this tank, the activated
sludge containing the mass of microorganisms is
deposited and pumped back to the inlet of the aeration
tank using a sludge circulation pump. Runoff water
from the secondary settling tank flows into the
chlorination bath. Here, the wastewater is contacted
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with chlorine compounds to kill pathogenic
microorganisms.
The water from the chlorination process can be
discharged directly into rivers or public drains. With
this process, wastewater with a BOD concentration of
250-300 mg/L can be lowered its BOD level to 20-30
mg/L. The surplus sludge from the whole process is
collected in the sludge drying bath, while the
infiltration water is collected back in the wastewater
reservoir. A simple illustration of the activated sludge
process can be seen in Figure 2.
Figure 2 Simple illustration of sewage treatment using
activated sludge method [3]
The microorganisms found in the aeration bath include
bacteria, protozoa, metazoa, filamentous bacteria, and
fungi. Meanwhile, the microorganisms that have the
most role in the activated sludge process are aerobic
bacteria. Microorganisms make use of dissolved
organic pollutants and organic particles as a food
source. Dissolved organic pollutants can enter the cells
using absorption. Meanwhile, organic particles cannot
enter cells as a food source. Organic particles in the
waste only stick to the cell wall (adsorption).
Furthermore, cells produce enzymes to dissolve
particles. In this way, bacteria can remove organic
pollutants both dissolved and in the form of particles
present in the waste.
The pH value in the aeration bath must be controlled to
suit microbial growth. To adjust the pH value, add acid
or base to the mixed liquor. Also, there is the addition
of urea and phosphoric acid as a source of N and P for
microbes.
2.5 Operational Variables in the Activated Sludge
Process
Several operational variables that are considered in the
activated sludge process are as follows.
2.5.1 Beban BOD (BOD Loading Rate or Volumetric
Loading Rate)
BOD load is the total mass of BOD in the incoming
(influent) wastewater divided by the volume of the
reactor. The BOD load can be calculated by the
following equation.
..................................... Equation 1
With :
Q = discharge of incoming wastewater (m3/hari)
S0 = BOD concentration in incoming wastewater
(kg/m3)
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V = reactor volume (m3)
2.5.2 Mixed-Liquor Suspended Solid (MLSS)
The mixture of wastewater, biomass, and other
suspended solids that is in the aeration bath in the
wastewater treatment process is often called mixed
liquor. Meanwhile, MLSS is the total amount of
suspended solids in the form of organic material,
minerals, and microorganisms. The levels of MLSS can
be determined by gravimetry, namely by filtering the
sludge by filtration, drying it at 105ºC, and weighing it
to determine its mass.
2.5.3 Food to Microorganism Ratio or Food to Mass
Ratio (F/M Ratio)
This parameter shows the amount of organic matter
(BOD) lost divided by the number of microorganisms
in the aeration bath. The value of the F/M ratio is
generally shown in kg BOD per kg MLSS per day. The
value of the F/M ratio can be calculated using the
following equation.
. optimum F/M ratio is between 0.2-0.5. Meanwhile, the
............................ Equation 2
With :
Q = discharge of incoming wastewater (m3/hari)
S = BOD concentration in incoming wastewater
(kg/m3)
V = reactor volume (m3)
S = BOD concentration in the effluent (kg/m3)
MLSS = Mixed liquor suspended solid (kg/m3)
The value of the F/M ratio can be controlled by
adjusting the circulation rate of the activated sludge
from the secondary settling tank which is circulated to
the aeration tank. The higher the sludge circulation
rate, the higher the F/M ratio value. The standard F/M
ratio for sewage treatment with an activated sludge
system is 0.2-0.5 kg BOD/kg MLSS, however this
value can be higher than 1.5 kg BOD/kg MLSS. The
low F/M ratio indicates that the microorganisms in the
aeration tank are increasingly productive in
metabolizing the waste. The lower the F/M ratio, the
more efficient the waste treatment system is.
2.5.4 Umur Lumpur ( Sludge Age )
The age of the sludge is also known as the mean cell
residence time. This parameter shows the average
residence time of microorganisms in the activated
sludge system (Sludge Retention Time). If HRT
(Hydraulic Retention Time) takes hours, then the
residence time of microbial cells in the aeration bath
can reach a matter of days. This parameter is inversely
proportional to the microbial growth rate. The sludge
life can be calculated by the following equation.
...................Equation 3
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With :
MLSS= Mixed Liquor Suspended Solid (kg/m3)
V = volume of the reactor or aeration bath (m3)
Qw = wastewater influent rate (m3/hari)
Qe = wastewater effluent rate (m3/hari)
SSe = suspended solids in the effluent (kg/m3)
SSw = suspended solids in the influent (kg/m3)
The sludge life can vary between 5-15 days for
conventional activated sludge systems. The lifespan of
the mud in winter can be longer than in summer.
Important parameters when controlling activated
sludge operations are the organic load/BOD load,
oxygen distribution, and control and operation of the
settling tank. The settling tank has two functions,
namely for clarification and thickening of the sludge.
The deposition of the sludge depends on the F / M ratio
and the age of the sludge. A Good deposition can occur
if the sludge of microorganisms is in a phase when
carbon sources and energy sources are limited and if
bacterial growth is low. Slurry deposition can occur
when the F/M ratio is low. In domestic wastewater, the
average cell residence time required for effective
deposition is 3-4 days. Poor settling can occur due to
disturbances in physical parameters (temperature, pH),
lack of substrate in the sludge, and the presence of
toxic substances that destroy of some of the floc that
has been formed [3].
The calculation for the% reduction in BOD can be
calculated with the following equation [1]:
............... Equation 4
The calculation for %TSS and %COD in the clarifire
can be calculated using the following equation [1]:
.............Equation 5
...............Equation 6
2.6 Clarifire
There are two generations of clarifiers, namely
conventional clarifiers and modern clarifiers. In the
conventional clarifier, each stage of water purification
is carried out in a separate place while in the modern
clarifier the three stages of water purification are
carried out in one integrated device. Several Factors
affect the performance of the clarifier, including:
1. Shape/design
A good clarifier design is a design that can
accommodate the three stages of clarification
(coagulation stage, flocculation stage and settling
stage) effectively and efficiently.
2. Addition of auxiliary substances
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The type and dose of an auxiliary substance
(Coagulant Aid) will greatly affect the floc formation
process, so that overall it will also affect the
performance of the clarifier [4].
2.7 Wastewater Quality Standards
Wastewater Quality Standard is a measure of the limit
or content of pollutant elements and or the tolerable
amount of pollutant elements in wastewater to be
disposed of or released into the water medium of a
business and or activity. The following table is the
Liquid Waste Quality Standard for the Pulp and Paper
Industry.
Tabel 1 Wastewater Quality Standards for Pulp and
Paper Business or Activities [5]
Parameter
BOD
process uses a chemical cooking liquid to partially
cook the wood before separation as well as
mechanically. The thermo-mechanical pulping process
involves short cooking using steam and sometimes a
chemical cooker, before the mechanical step.
5. The semi-chemical process is the use of a neutral
sulfite cooking liquid without bleaching it to produce a
coarse product for the inner layer of brown corrugated
cardboard.
6. The soda process is the production of pulp using a
highly alkaline sodium hydroxide cooking liquid.
7. The deinking process is a paper-making process that
uses used paper that is recycled through an alkaline
deinking process and is sometimes brightened or
bleached to produce a secondary pulp, often in
conjunction with conventional processes.
COD TSS

Process/
Product
B. PAPER
Discharge Highest Highest Highest Highest
Highest Highest
Pollution Load levels Pollution Load Pollution
levels
(mg/ton)
(Kg/
ton)
(mg/
ton)
(Kg/
ton)
levels
(mg/ton)
Load
(Kg/ton)
1. Smooth paper means the production of bleached
fine paper such as printing paper and writing paper.
A. Pulp Bulk paper means the production of brown paper,
Bleached
Kraft
85 100 8.5 350 29.75 100 8.5 such as lineboard, brown paperboard or cardboard.
The pulp
95 100 9.5 300 28.5 100 9.5
dissolves
2. Other paper means the production of bleached
Unbleache
d kraft
50 75 3.75 200 10 60 3
paper other than those listed in the fine category,
Mechanic
(CMP dan
such as newsprint.
60 50 3 120 7.2 75 4.5
Grounwoo
d)
Semi
70 100 7 200 14 100 7
PT Papertech Indonesia, which produces crude paper
chemistry

Soda pulp 80 100 8 300 24 100 8

products and wastewater quality standards, has
De-ink
parameters by the regulation of the Minister of
Environment of the Republic of Indonesia No. 5 of
60 100 6 300 18 100 6
Pulp

B. Paper 2014. The discharge parameter is 40 m3/s, the highest

Smooth 50 100 5 200 10 100 5 BOD content is 90 mg/ton, the pollution load the
Rough 40 90 3.6 175 7 80 3.2 highest BOD level of 3.6 kg/ton, the highest COD level
Sparet 175 60 10.5 100 17.5 45 7.8 of 175 mg/ton, the highest contamination load of COD
Bleached
paper
35 75 2.6 160 5.6 80 2.8
was 7.0 kg/ton, the highest TSS content was 80 mg/ton,
the highest pollution load was TSS of 3.2 kg/tonne and
pH 6.0 - 9.0
for a pH of 6.0 - 9.0 [5].
Note :
3. Methodology
The description of the above process categories is
given as follows: To support the final assignment and the studies that
have been carried out, several methods of
A.PULP
implementation can be carried out, namely:
1. The kraft process (bleached and unbleached) is the
2.1 Introduction
production of pulp using a highly alkaline sodium
hydroxide cooking liquid and sodium sulfide. The In the implementation of the Final assignment includes
bleached kraft process is used in the production of spatial orientation and field orientation. The following
colored paperboard and other coarse paper. Bleaching is a description of each orientation.
is the use of a strong oxidizing agent followed by an
alkaline extraction.  Space Orientation

2. To remove the color from the pulp, for a complete
paper product range.
3. The soluble pulp process is a white, highly refined
pulp product using strong chemical cooking. The pulp
is used for the manufacture of rayon and other products
which require almost no metal content.
4. The groundwood process is the use of mechanical
defibration (separation of fibers) using grinders or
stone refiners. The mechanical chemical pulping
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The activity that was carried out on Monday,
December 3, 2019 was an introduction to the history of
PT. Papertech Indonesia, reading the rules for students
who carry out practical work activities or final
assignments and safety induction, namely providing
material to introduce the basics of Occupational Safety
and Environmental Health while at PT. Papertech
Indonesia which was given by Mr. Irfan Yudia
Chandra as the P2K3 secretary located at the HSE
Department of PT. Papertech Indonesia. This activity
was carried out in the Barcelona meeting room, the
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office of PT. Papertech Indonesia. On Tuesday 4
December 2019 the activities carried out were a
division of Units and an introduction to the Field
Supervisor and an explanation of the flow chart of the
liquid waste treatment process at PT. Papertech
Indonesia. On Wednesday, February 3, 2020, the
activity carried out was the provision of material
regarding pulp industry wastewater treatment in
aeration equipment at PT. Papertech Indonesia. All
materials were provided by Mr. Subagyo as the field
supervisor.
 Field Orientation
Field orientation activities On Tuesday 4 February
2020 the activity carried out was an introduction to the
liquid waste treatment process at the WWTP unit of
PT. Papertech Indonesia by Mr. Subagyo. On Friday 7
February 2020 is an introduction to the field regarding
the activated sludge process or aeration. On Monday,
February 10, 2020, the author knows the observations
about MLSS (Mixed-Liquor Suspended Solid). On
Thursday, February 13, 2020, there was an introduction
to the field regarding reactor volume. Monday,
February 17, 2020, is to know the pH and temperature
levels in the aeration tub. This activity visited the
aeration basin at the WWTP unit. On Wednesday,
February 19, 2020, is an introduction to the field
regarding the sedimentation process in the clarifier tub.
On Friday, February 21, 2020, checking the COD in
the clarifire tub together with the laboratory assistant at
PT. Papertech Indonesia. Monday, February 24, 2020,
is to know the concentration of BOD in the incoming
and outgoing wastewater. On Wednesday, February 26,
2020, it is to know the discharge of waste water that
enters and leaves. All field observation activities were
accompanied by Mr. Afif as a supervisor and Ibu Putri
as a laboratory assistant at the PT. Papertech Indonesia.
2.2 Data retrieval
The author takes data on the process of the aeration
tube and clarifier on February 3 - February 28, 2020,
the data are taken is by the title taken. In this case, the
writer made direct observations to the wastewater
treatment process unit for taking wastewater samples
which then analyzed several parameters such as BOD
load, F/M ratio, and sludge age (activated sludge) in
the Waste Water Treatment Process laboratory to
produce data related to title taken. Based on this field
data the authors get data that will be the source of data
in making the final report. Also, the authors also get
data from a daily report.
2.3 Data processing
After we get the data in the field, the next stage is a
data processing and data analysis in making the final
project report, in this stage the writer describes the
existing data and performs the analysis, after that the
writer presents the report to the supervisor, if this
report gets input from a supervisor, the writer must
review what has been discussed. If the report has been
approved by the supervisor, the next step is to
conclude. When the report is in accordance, the author
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will present the results of the final project in front of
the supervisor and presentation participants.
4. Results and Discussion
4.1 Biological Waste Treatment
The wastewater treatment used at PT Papertech
Indonesia is biological and aerobic.
Aerobic biological processing at PT Papertech
Indonesia uses an aeration process or activated sludge
and there are 2 stages of the aeration process, namely
aeration bath 1 with a capacity of 3000 m3 and aeration
bath 2 with a capacity of 4800 m3. In aeration bath 1
using an aerator and surface aerator while aeration tub
2 uses an aerator and blower.
Anaerobic biological processing at PT Papertech
Indonesia uses the IC Tower Reactor process. The
anaerobic process in the IC Tower reactor produces gas
and wastewater in the IC Tower reactor which is
flowed into the aeration basin. The aeration basin itself
is a place for processes or efforts to increase the
oxygen concentration contained in wastewater, so that
the biological oxidation process by microbes will run
well.
4.2 Food requirements for microorganisms (F/M
Ratio)
This parameter shows the amount of organic matter
(BOD) lost divided by the number of microorganisms
in the aeration bath. The value of the F/M ratio is
generally shown in kg BOD per kg MLSS per day. To
find out the value of the F/M ratio, the required
parameters are Q (discharge of incoming wastewater),
S (concentration of BOD of the effluent), S0
(concentration of BOD in incoming wastewater),
MLSS (total amount of suspended solids in the form of
material). organics, minerals and microorganisms) and
V (reactor volume). The F/M ratio test was carried out
in the aeration bath for 30 days.
In table 2 there are data processing results, the data
used are in attachment 1. Data is taken from February
3, 2020 - February 28, 2020. Data is taken on Monday
- Friday every week, data processing is carried out on
Saturdays and Sundays. holiday. The data below is the
parameter data needed for the value of the F/M ratio
and the result of the calculation of% BOD.
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age testing was carried out in an aeration bath for 30

days.
Table 2 The results of the calculation of the F/M Ratio
In table 3 there are data processing results, the data
and %BOD in the aeration bath
used are in appendix 1. Data is taken from February 3,
Qw S So (kg MLSS F/M 2020 - February 28, 2020. Data is taken on Monday -
Date V (m3) %BOD
(m3/day) (kg/m3) (m3) (kg/m3) Ratio
Friday every week, data processing is carried out on
3/2/2020 3502.00 0.04 1.16 4.02 7800.00 0.13 96.90 Saturdays and Sundays. holiday. The data below is the
4/2/2020 3390.00 0.02 1.23 4.34 7800.00 0.12 98.10 parameter data required for the value of the sludge age.
5/2/2020 3164.00 0.03 1.26 4.08 7800.00 0.12 97.38
Table 3 Results of calculating the age of the mud
6/2/2020 3300.00 0.02 1.23 3.70 7800.00 0.14 97.98
Parameter
7/2/2020 3230.00 0.03 1.11 3.74 7800.00 0.12 97.43
MLSS V Qw Qe SSe SSw Sludge
10/2/2020 2748.00 0.04 1.19 3.12 7800.00 0.14 96.97 Date Age
(Day)
(kg/ 3 (m3/ (m3/ (kg/ (kg/
11/2/2020 3065.00 0.03 1.28 3.02 7800.00 0.16 97.35 (m )
m3) day) day) m3) m3)
12/2/2020 1763.00 0.04 0.97 3.36 7800.00 0.06 96.04
3/2/2020 4.02 7800 3502 552 8.50 0.02 7
13/2/2020 1693.00 0.03 0.59 2.68 7800.00 0.04 94.15
4/2/2020 4.34 7800 3390 470 8.06 0.10 8
14/2/2020 1971.00 0.03 0.64 2.18 7800.00 0.07 94.56
5/2/2020 4.08 7800 3164 552 9.02 0.03 6
17/2/2020 3486.00 0.04 1.07 2.56 7800.00 0.18 96.24
6/2/2020 3.70 7800 3300 552 8.90 0.10 6
18/2/2020 3478.00 0.03 1.05 2.80 7800.00 0.16 96.89
7/2/2020 3.74 7800 3230 553 8.70 0.02 6
19/2/2020 1935.00 0.04 0.78 3.30 7800.00 0.06 95.42
10/2/2020 3.12 7800 2748 471 4.20 0.03 12
20/2/2020 3472.00 0.03 1.00 2.88 7800.00 0.15 97.42
11/2/2020 3.02 7800 3065 428 8.50 0.06 6
21/2/2020 3478.00 0.03 1.01 3.56 7800.00 0.12 97.00
12/2/2020 3.36 7800 1763 480 5.02 0.09 10
24/2/2020 3202.00 0.03 1.13 3.88 7800.00 0.12 97.00
13/2/2020 2.68 7800 1693 266 5.10 0.07 14
25/2/2020 4202.00 0.03 0.56 4.62 7800.00 0.06 93.79
14/2/2020 2.18 7800 1971 358 5.06 0.07 9
26/2/2020 3613.00 0.03 1.13 4.30 7800.00 0.12 96.92
17/2/2020 2.56 7800 3486 240 7.50 0.08 10
27/2/2020 3472.00 0.03 1.00 2.88 7800.00 0.15 97.42
18/2/2020 2.80 7800 3478 500 8.10 0.01 5
28/2/2020 3478.00 0.03 1.01 3.56 7800.00 0.12 97.00
19/2/2020 3.30 7800 1935 552 8.70 0.03 5
AVERAGE 3082.10 0.03 1.02 3.43 7800.00 0.12 96.60 20/2/2020 2.88 7800 3472 470 7.50 0.04 6
10.9
21/2/2020 3.56 7800 3478 552 0.04 5
0
15.5
This F/M ratio parameter shows the amount of organic 24/2/2020 3.88 7800 3202 552
0
0.03 3

matter (BOD) lost divided by the number of 25/2/2020 4.62 7800 4202 553 8.06 0.05 8
microorganisms in the aeration bath. The value of the 26/2/2020 4.30 7800 3613 471
11.1
0.04 6
0
F/M ratio is generally shown in kg BOD per kg MLSS 27/2/2020 2.88 7800 3472 428 7.50 0.08 6
per day. The average value of% BOD is 96.60%. The 10.9
28/2/2020 3.56 7800 3478 480 0.04 5
level of the F/M ratio is influenced by BOD and MLSS 0

contained in wastewater. A high MLSS will cause a AVERAGE 3.43 7800 3082 474 8.34 0.05 7

low F/M ratio. The standard F/M ratio for sewage

treatment with an activated sludge system is 0.2-0.5
kg.BOD/kg.MLSS. A low F/M ratio indicates that the
microorganisms in the aeration tank are more
productive in the waste microorganisms and the
deposition of sludge is good, while the high F / M ratio
results in poor sludge deposition. The lower the F / M
ratio, the more efficient the sewage treatment system is
[3].
The average value of the F / M ratio obtained at the
time of this study was 0.12 kg.BOD / kg.MLSS. The
F / M ratio value indicates that the microorganisms in
the tank are very low resulting in unproductive aeration
and inefficient wastewater treatment.
4.3 Sludge Age
Sludge Age is the average residence time of
microorganisms in the activated sludge system. To find
out the value of sludge life the required parameters are
MLSS (total amount of suspended solids in the form of
organic material, minerals and microorganisms), V
(reactor volume), Qw (wastewater influent rate), Qe
(wastewater effluent rate), SSe (solids suspended in the
effluent, SSw (solids suspended in influent). Sludge
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The age of the sludge is also known as the mean cell
residence time. This parameter indicates the average
residence time of microorganisms in the activated
sludge system. The age of the sludge or the residence
time of microbial cells in an aeration bath can be up to
a few days. The sludge life can vary between 5-15 days
for conventional activated sludge systems. The lifespan
of the mud in winter can be longer than in summer.
The average age of the sludge is 7 days, this shows that
the sludge is deposited effectively.
Ineffective sludge deposition can occur due to
disturbances in physical parameters (temperature, pH),
lack of substrate in the sludge, and the presence of
toxic substances that can destroy some of the floc that
has been formed [3].
4.4 Clarifire's ability in the deposition process
In table 4 there are data processing results, the data
used are in appendix 2. Data is taken from February 3,
2020 - February 28, 2020. Data is taken on Monday -
Friday every week, data processing is carried out on
Saturdays and on Sundays. holiday. The data below is
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the parameter data required for the value of the settling 2020, with a percent reduction in BOD value of
ability of the clarifire. 96.90%, an F / M ratio value of 0.13 KgBOD /
KgMLSS.day, and a sludge age value of 7 days.
Table 4 The result of TSS and COD percentage in the
clarifire
Date %TSS %COD
3/2/2020 98.61 89.66
4/2/2020 94.00 93.66
5/2/2020 83.33 91.27
6/2/2020 98.33 93.25
7/2/2020 95.00 91.62
Graph 2 Analysis of Activated
10/2/2020 94.00 89.92
Sludge Process Variables
11/2/2020 93.48 91.48 ( 10 February 2020 s/d 14 February 2020)
12/2/2020 93.33 88.04
In graph 2 from February 10, 2020 to February 14,
13/2/2020 97.86 83.90
2020, it can be seen that on February 11, 2020, it is the
14/2/2020 95.24 81.88
highest data where the percentage value of BOD
17/2/2020 97.00 91.50 reduction is 97.35%, the F/M ratio value is 0.16
18/2/2020 81.25 90.67 KgBOD/KgMLSS. days and the age value of the
19/2/2020 87.50 87.69 sludge is 6 days. Meanwhile, the lowest value was on
20/2/2020 98.44 92.30 February 13, 2020, with a percent value of BOD
21/2/2020 95.00 89.70 reduction of 94.15%, and F/M ratio value of 0.04
24/2/2020 97.62 91.42
KgBOD/KgMLSS.day, and a sludge life value of 14
days.
25/2/2020 95.24 83.04
26/2/2020 91.94 91.15
27/2/2020 98.44 92.30
28/2/2020 95.00 89.70
AVERAGE 94.03 89.71

From the data above, it can be seen that the ability of

the clarifie in the deposition process for the% TSS
produced on average for 30 days is 94.03%, and for the Graph 3 Analysis of Activated
% COD produced on average for 30 days is 89.71%. Sludge Process Variables
( 17 February 2020 s/d 21 February 2020)
4.5 Analysis of activated sludge process variables
In graph 3 on February 17, 2020, to February 21, 2020,
The following is a graph of the results of calculating
it can be seen that on February 20, 2020, the data is the
the percent reduction in BOD, F/M ratio, and sludge
highest where the percent reduction in BOD value is
age (sludge age) from February 3, 2020, to February
97.42%, the F/M ratio value is 0.15 KgBOD/KgMLSS.
28, 2020:
Days, and the age value of the sludge is 6 days.
Meanwhile, the lowest value was on February 19,
2020, with a percentage value of 95.42% reduction in
BOD, an F/M ratio value of 0.06
KgBOD/KgMLSS.day and a sludge age value of 5
days.

Graph 1 Analysis of Activated

Sludge Process Variables
( 03 February 2020 s/d 07 February 2020)
From Figure 1 is a graph of the analysis of the
activated sludge process variables from February 3,
2020, to February 28, 2020, it can be seen the
relationship between the percent reduction in BOD,
F/M Ratio, and sludge age. On February 4, 2020, the
data is the highest where the percent value of BOD
reduction is 98.10%, the F/M ratio value is 0.12
KgBOD/KgMLSS.day and the sludge life value is 8
days. Meanwhile, the lowest value was on February 3,
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Graph 4 Analysis of Activated
Sludge Process Variables
( 24 February 2020 s/d 28 February 2020)
In graph 4 on February 24, 2020 to February 28, 2020,
it can be seen that on February 27, 2020, the data is the
highest where the percentage value of BOD reduction
is 97.42%, the F/M ratio value is 0.15
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KgBOD/KgMLSS. days and the age value of the [2] Syilvia. 2018. Analisa dan Evaluasi
sludge is 6 days. Meanwhile, the lowest value was on BiochemicalOxygen Demand Terhadap
February 25, 2020, with the percentage value of the Pengolahan Limbah Cair dengan Lumpur Aktif.
reduction in BOD of 93.79%, the value of F/M ratio of Indramayu : Akademi Minyak dan gas
0.06 KgBOD/KgMLSS.day and the value of sludge life Balongan Indramayu.
of 8 days. [3] Ningtyas, Rahayu. 2015. Jurnal Pengolahan
From the analysis of the four graphs above, it is stated Limbah dengan Proses Lumpur Aktif. Bandung :
that the two variables above are directly proportional to Institut Teknologi Bandung.
the age of the mud. This means that if the percent [4] Pasymi. 2007. Perancangan Incline Tube
reduction in BOD and F/M ratios is low, the value of Clarifire.
the sludge age or the average residence time of the [5] KEMEN LH NO 5. 2014. Baku Mutu Air
cells is getting smaller, meaning that the sludge used is Limbah. Republik Indonesia : Peraturan Mentri
ineffective so that the company needs to replace the Lingkungan Hidup Republik Indonesia.
sludge, which means that the company's expenses are
getting bigger. Likewise, if the percent reduction in
BOD and F/M ratios is high, the value of the sludge
age or the average residence time of the cells is getting
bigger, meaning that the sludge used is more effective
so that the company is not too intensive in doing mud
replacement [3].
5. Conclusions and Suggestion
5.1 Conclusions
From the results of the final assignment that has been
done by the author for one month at PT Papertech
Indonesia with the title of liquid waste treatment using
the activated sludge method, conclusions can be drawn,
among others:
1. The average value of the F/M ratio resulted from
data processing was 0.12 kg.BOD/kg.MLSS. The F/M
ratio value indicates that the microorganisms in the
tank are very low resulting in unproductive aeration
and inefficient wastewater treatment.
2. The average value of sludge life resulting from data
processing is 7 days, this shows that the sludge
deposition is effective.
3. The ability of the clarifire in the deposition process
for %TSS produced for 30 days has an average of
94.03%, and for %COD produced for 30 days has an
average of 89.71%.
5.1 Suggestion
In a good paper waste treatment process, the authors
provide suggestions including:
1. Perform testing of which type of flocculant is better
for paper waste treatment processes other than
PAC.
Acknowledgement
Thank you to PT Papertech Indonesia for receiving me
well for carrying out my final project in the period
December-February 2020 and thanks to everyone who
has contributed during the implementation of my final
project.
References
[1] Bidang Persiapan Operasi. 1996. Buku Operasi
Waste Water Treatment. Purwakarta : PT
Papertech Indonesia.

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