Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Schmutzdecke
Schmutzdecke (German, "grime or filth cover", sometimes incorrectly spelt Schmutzedecke) is a complex biological layer formed on the surface of slow sand filter beds. The Schmutzdecke is the layer that provides the effective purification in potable water treatment, the underlying sand providing the support medium for this biological treatment layer.
The composition of any particular Schmutzdecke varies, but will typically consist of a gelatinous matrix of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, rotifera and a range of aquatic insect larvae. As a Schmutzdecke ages, more algae tend to develop, and larger aquatic organisms may be present including some endoprocta , snails and annelid worms.
10-26-2009 08:16:03
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details