A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science (Professional) in Environmental Engineering and Management, School of Environment, Resources and Development

Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2011

This study was conducted in a medium size of block rubber and latex concentrate processing factory in Daklak province, Vietnam. The maximum production capacity is 1,576 tons block rubber and 166 tons latex concentrate a month. The company produces excellent quality product for in country uses and exportation. At present, on the low period, block rubber is produced around 31 tons a day and no latex for latex concentrate process. The water usage in the production process originates from treated wastewater. The water consumption is so high approximate 1,322 m3 per day. Currently, the existing wastewater treatment plant was not efficiency. A study was conducted in order to solve the problems by waste minimization in the rubber production process and improve operation of the treatment plant. The wastewater generations of 912.6 m3 /d in the block rubber process and 205.9 m 3 /d in latex concentrate process are combined and sent to the effluent treatment plant. Modification was urgently needed, and it was done by resizing dimension of wastewater treatment ponds. Results from wastewater treatment study indicated that interpond recirculation should be used and modify the rubber trap, the anaerobic ponds, and the aerated ponds system. Furthermore, waste minimization at source is proposed by waste segregation method. The wastewater streams are proposed to segregate based on SS concentration. A bench rock filter is suggested for reused pretreated wastewater in production process.