Abstract:
This study was conducted at Assela Malt Factory to assess the physical quality of wastewater. The sample of wastewater was collected from Assela malt factory (steeping box, germination
box and treatment tank). The objective of this study was to assess the physical quality of
wastewater and its reusability for irrigation purpose. The studied physical wastewater quality
parameters were total dissolved solids (TDS), total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH, electrical
conductivity (EC), total solids (TS), temperature and turbidity. The study show that the mean
values of TDS, TSS, TS, pH, EC and Turbidity ranged from 166.67 to 2133.33mg/l, 1700 to
3933.33mg/l, 441.67 to 2025mg/l, 5.37 to 6.16, 0.1764 to 1.814dS/m and 2.27 to 347.30NTU, respectively. From the result of physical parameters studied the quality of wastewater released
from treatment tank, steeping box and germination box were not suitable for irrigation when
compared with guidelines due to the value of total suspended solids, total solids and turbidity
in the case germination box; total suspended solids, total solids, pH and turbidity value in the
case of steeping box and total suspended solids, total solids and pH value in the case of
treatment tank. So, it is suggested that further treatment of the wastewater is required to
identify its quality and suitability to reuse it for irrigation.
