Impact of foam formation on year-to-year performance variation in WWTP of Annaba (eastern Algeria): a comparative analysis
May 28, 2026
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| Article Title: | Impact of foam formation on year-to-year performance variation in WWTP of Annaba (eastern Algeria): a comparative analysis |
| Authors: | Yazid B., Zohra G.F., Sofiane A.R., Samiha C.R. |
| Affiliation: | Environmental Research Center (CRE), Avenue Boughazi Said, Annaba 23000, Algeria Ecobiology Laboratory for Marine Environments and Coastal Areas, Badji Mokhtar University of Annaba, 12.P.O. BOX, 23000 Annaba, Algeria |
| Abstract: | Biological foam generation amplifies inter-annual variability in WWTP performance by causing recurring, season-sensitive disturbances in biomass retention, solids control, effluent stability, and operating cost. This study examines the effects of biological foam generation on inter-annual variations at the WWTP of Annaba (Algeria) located in the Mediterranean region via a comparison of 2024 (pre-foam) and 2025 (post-foam) periods. Whereas organic matter degradation (BODâ‚…, TSS) was less affected, nutrient removal experienced a significant reduction due to foam generation, whereby nitrogen removal decreased to below 20%, while phosphorus removal was almost non-existent. PCA analysis indicated that seasonal changes and temperatures were some of the key reasons for the biological imbalance. It can be concluded that biological foaming is a major contributor to non-compliance with nutrient discharges, calling for immediate attention towards sustainable measures within Mediterranean WWTPs. |
| Keywords: | biological foaming, WWTP, nutrient removal, inter-annual performance, principal component analysis. |
| *Correspondence: | Bedouh Yazid, Environmental Research Center (CRE), Avenue Boughazi Said, Annaba 23000, Algeria., Tel. +213655244419, email: y.bedouh@cre.dz |
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