Abstract: A continuous system for disinfecting waste water streams, such as sewage and streams containing organic matter and removing suspended solids therefrom is disclosed. A waste water stream is passed into an electrolytic cell open to the atmosphere and between a series of electrically charged parallel electrode plates. A controlled amount of electrolyte such as sodium chloride is added to the waste water stream before it passes through the electrolytic cell. During passage between the electrode plates a foam is generated which entrains suspended selected nutrient solids contained in the waste water stream, the foam removed by skimming and/or suction means. The treated water discharged from the electrolytic cell is filtered to remove additional non-nutrient suspended solids not entrained with the foam. A portion of the treated water from the electrolytic cell is recycled and reinjected into the influent stream.