Abstract: A method of reducing the organic compounds in an aqueous stream by generating an oxidant in-situ using at least one electrolytic cell. The method may comprise contacting at least a portion of the aqueous stream with the electrolytic cell. The electrolytic cell may have at least two electrodes, wherein at least one electrode is a metal electrode and, a power source for powering the at least two electrodes. A water treatment system for generating an oxidant in-situ comprising at least one electrolytic cell. The electrolytic cell may have at least two electrodes, wherein at least one electrode is a metal electrode, and a power source for powering the at least two electrodes. A method of improving the rejection rate of a reverse osmosis membrane using an oxidant generated in-situ. The method may comprise contacting at least a portion of the aqueous stream with the electrolytic cell thereby creating an oxidized aqueous stream.

Abstract: Methods for treatment of sludge with microwave irradiation for improving its dewatering are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes exposing the sludge to microwave irradiation at an absorbed power density of between about 7 W/ml and about 13 W/ml. Turbidity, total solids content and overall dewaterability are improved when the microwave irradiation treatment is combined with another method for dewatering sludge, such as enzyme treatment, conditioning with a flocculating agent and mechanical dewatering.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method of reducing fouling and increasing the efficiency of microfiltration and ultrafiltration systems by adding an effective amount of a tannin-based polymer to wastewater containing high concentrations of total dissolved solids (TDS), such as produced water, prior to filtration. Additional pretreatment to separate out and remove coagulated solids before filtration is not required. Typically, the tannin polymer used in treating the process water is a modified tannin comprised of a Mannich reaction product of an amine, an aldehyde, and a tannin.