Wet air oxidation

Wet or wet air oxidation of sludge is the thermal degradation, hydrolysis and oxidation of organic matter at elevated temperatures and pressures. The process does not generate secondary pollutants such as dioxin, furans, NO_x (oxides of nitrogen) and SO₂ (sulphur dioxide). It can be operated either to enhance the biodegradability of the sewage sludge or to substantially mineralise the organic matter (i.e. convert it to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide).