What Does
Effluent Mean?
Effluent is the outflowing of gas or liquid from man-made infrastructure or natural waters. In the field of engineering, effluence is the term used to describe a stream that exits a chemical reactor.
Effluent can be treated or untreated wastewater that flows out from industrial outfall, sewers or plants. At times, sewage or liquid waste is released to seas and rivers.
Corrosionpedia Explains Effluent
Effluent is generally known as water pollution — the outflow of waste from facilities like sewage treatment plants. It can also refer to the wastewater that is expulsed by industrial facilities. There are cases where effluent can be classified as treated. This is common in wastewater treatment plants where the treated effluent is called secondary effluent. This cleaner version is useful in feeding the bacteria present in bio-filters. Other facilities that generate effluent include thermal power stations. They release effluent water that is warmer than the surrounding water.
Regardless of the type of effluent, one thing remains the same — it is not good for the environment. Thus, all industries should follow regulations to control such industrial discharges. Additionally, strict implementation of policies should be enforced and compliance monitored.
Effluents can cause specific environmental damage that may affect not only the quality of water and the associated facility, but the environment in general as well.