TREATMENT OF TEXTILE INDUSTRY WASTEWATER: PROBLEMS AND MODERN SOLUTIONS

JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 96 TREATMENT OF TEXTILE INDUSTRY WASTEWATER: PROBLEMS AND MODERN SOLUTIONS Aitova SH.K., Yakubov Y.Kh., Udabboyev R.Z. Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhon Beruniy https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17977944 Abstract: This paper analyzes the composition of wastewater generated by the textile industry, its environmental hazards, and the scientific basis of effective treatment technologies. During the research, the main pollutants of textile effluents — synthetic des, heavy metals, organic substances, and other chemical compounds — were identified and their adverse impacts on ecosystems were assessed. Chemical and biological parameters, including pH, BOD₅, dissolved oxygen, and heavy metal concentrations, were measured under laboratory conditions. The results showed that aeration, flotation, and physico-chemical neutralization are among the most effective methods for wastewater purification. Furthermore, the application of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), the Fenton reaction, photocatalytic degradation, adsorption, and membrane technologies was found to provide deep purification of textile wastewater. Based on the obtained results, practical recommendations were developed to ensure environmental safety, enhance water reuse potential, and reduce industrial waste. The findings serve as a scientific foundation for implementing eco-friendly, economically efficient, and internationally compliant wastewater treatment systems in the textile industry. Keywords: wastewater, textile industry, environmental issues, biological treatment, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), adsorption methods, photocatalytic degradation, membrane technologies, Fenton reaction, environmental safety. TO'QIMACHILIK SANOATIDA OQIVA SUVLARNI TOZALASH: MUAMMOLAR VA ZAMONAVIY YECHIMLAR Annotatsiya: Ushbu maqolada to‘qimachilik sanoatidan hosil bo‘ladigan oqava suvlarning tarkibi, ularning ekologik xavflari hamda samarali tozalash texnologiyalarining ilmiy asoslari tahlil qilindi. Tadqiqot davomida oqava suvlarning asosiy ifloslantiruvchi komponentlari — sintetik bo‘yoqlar, og‘ir metallar, organik moddalar va boshqa kimyoviy birikmalar aniqlanib, ularning ekotizimga salbiy ta’siri baholandi. Kimyoviy va biologik parametrlar, jumladan pH, BPK₅, kislorod miqdori va og‘ir metallarning kontsentratsiyasi laboratoriya sharoitida o‘lchandi. Tahlillar natijasida aeratsiya, flotatsiya va fizik-kimyoviy neytrallash usullari oqava suvlarni tozalashda eng samarali yo‘nalishlardan biri ekanligi aniqlangan. Shuningdek, ilg‘or oksidlanish jarayonlari (AOPs), Fenton reaksiyasi, fotokatalitik parchalanish, adsorbsion va membrana texnologiyalarining qo‘llanishi to‘qimachilik oqava suvlarini chuqur tozalash imkonini berishi ko‘rsatildi. Olingan natijalar asosida ekologik xavfsizlikni ta’minlash, suv resurslaridan qayta foydalanish imkoniyatlarini kengaytirish va sanoat chiqindilarini kamaytirish bo‘yicha amaliy tavsiyalar ishlab chiqildi. Tadqiqot natijalari to‘qimachilik sanoatida ekologik toza, iqtisodiy jihatdan samarali va xalqaro standartlarga mos tozalash tizimlarini joriy etish uchun ilmiy asos bo‘lib xizmat qiladi. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 97 Kalit so’zlar: Oqova suvlar, To’qimachilik sanoati, Ekologik muammolar, Biologik tozalash, Ilg’or oksidlanish jarayonlari (AOPs), Adsorbsion usullar, Fotokatalitik parchalanish, Membrana texnologiyalari, Fenton jarayoni, Ekologik xavfsizlik. ОЧИСТКА СТОЧНIХ ВОД ТЕКСТИЛЬНОЙ ПРОМIШЛЕННОСТИ: ПРОБЛЕМI И СОВРЕМЕННIЕ РЕШЕНИYA Аннотаsиya: В статье проведён анализ состава сточнiх вод, образуyushихсya в текстильной промiшленности, их eкологической опасности и научнiх основ eффективнiх технологий очистки. В ходе исследованиya вiyaвленi основнiе загрyaзнyayushие компонентi сточнiх вод — синтетические красители, тyaжёлiе металлi, органические веshества и другие химические соединениya, а также оsенено их негативное воздействие на eкосистему. Химические и биологические параметрi, вклyuчаya pH, БПК₅, содержание кислорода и конsентраsиyu тyaжёлiх металлов, бiли измеренi в лабораторнiх условиyaх. Результатi анализа показали, что методi аeраsии, флотаsии и физико-химической нейтрализаsии yaвлyayuтсya одними из наиболее eффективнiх направлений очистки сточнiх вод. Кроме того, применение проsессов продвинутого окислениya (AOPs), реакsии Фентона, фотокаталитического разложениya, адсорбsионнiх и мембраннiх технологий обеспечивает глубокуyu очистку сточнiх вод текстильной промiшленности. На основе полученнiх даннiх разработанi практические рекомендаsии по обеспечениyu eкологической безопасности, расширениyu возможностей повторного использованиya воднiх ресурсов и снижениyu об’ёма промiшленнiх отходов. Результатi исследованиya служат научной основой длya внедрениya eкологически чистiх, eкономически eффективнiх и соответствуyushих международнiм стандартам систем очистки в текстильной промiшленности. Клyuчевiе слова: сточнiе водi, текстильнаya промiшленность, eкологические проблемi, биологическаya очистка, проsессi продвинутого окислениya (AOPs), адсорбsионнiе методi, фотокаталитическое разложение, мембраннiе технологии, реакsиya Фентона, eкологическаya безопасность. Introduction. The textile industry is one of the most important sectors of the global economy today, contributing not only to economic development but also playing a significant role in creating jobs in many countries. This sector encompasses the production of various fabrics, deing, finishing, and other processes. However, the textile industry is one of the most polluting industries that leads to ecological problems. In particular, the wastewater produced during the manufacturing process is a major environmental issue, as it may contain various chemicals, heavy metals, synthetic des, and other harmful compounds [1.]. When these pollutants enter water bodies, they can cause significant damage to the environment, plant and animal life, as well as human health [2.]. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 98 Textile industry wastewater contains many harmful components, making the development of effective treatment technologies one of the key research areas. Today, various treatment methods have been developed and implemented to address this issue. Biological treatment methods that break down organic substances in wastewater are considered one of the most effective approaches. In this method, special microorganisms are used to degrade chemical pollutants and improve water quality [3.]. Additionally, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) show high efficiency in breaking down chemical compounds and disinfecting water [4.]. Another important technological approach is adsorption systems. In adsorption methods, harmful components in water are separated using various natural and synthetic materials. Specifically, inexpensive and environmentally friendly adsorbents can be used to remove des and heavy metals. This method is particularly notable for its economic efficiency [5.]. Additionally, photocatalytic degradation technologies are widely used through the application of nanomaterials. This method degrades organic compounds using ultraviolet radiation and photocatalysts, providing high-level water purification [6.]. Membrane technologies, particularly advanced methods such as ultrafiltration and nanofiltration, have become noteworthy technologies in recent years. These technologies are based on physically filtering water, allowing the separation of harmful components in water through very small filtration systems. Such methods are considered especially effective for highly polluted wastewater [7.]. Furthermore, one of the advanced oxidation technologies, the Fenton process, plays a significant role in the treatment of textile industry wastewater. In this technology, pollutants are oxidized and degraded using iron ions and hydrogen peroxide, which significantly improves water quality [8.]. Recent studies have shown that one of the most effective methods for treating textile industry wastewater is the use of combined approaches. For example, the combination of photocatalytic and biological methods has been found to significantly enhance the wastewater treatment process [9.]. Additionally, new types of adsorbents and biosorption methods, particularly those based on natural materials, are considered promising technologies [10.]. Many researchers are focusing on methods developed from recyclable materials, which are expected to drive the future implementation of eco-friendly and cost-effective treatment technologies [11.]. Overall, textile industry wastewater is one of the major ecological issues on a global scale, and continuous research is being conducted on its treatment technologies. These scientific studies are aimed at improving environmental protection, enhancing the quality of water resources, and increasing recycling possibilities [12.]. In particular, developing economically JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 99 efficient, environmentally safe, and highly effective treatment methods remains a critical focus of current scientific efforts [13.]. This study analyzes modern technologies for treating textile industry wastewater and examines their effectiveness. Additionally, existing problems, future research directions, and recommendations for the implementation of environmentally safe technologies are presented [14.]. Methods and Materials. Various scientific methods were employed to study the wastewater treatment and recycling processes. The research process was based on experimental, analytical, and theoretical research methods, which played a crucial role in studying the composition of wastewater, evaluating their treatment efficiency, and developing optimal technological solutions [15; 16]. In the first phase, the data collection and analysis method was applied. Scientific sources, international experiences, and practical studies regarding the pollution level, compositional characteristics, and treatment technologies of wastewater were examined [17; 18]. Specifically, the physicochemical composition of wastewater (biochemical oxygen demand – BOD, chemical oxygen demand – COD, total suspended solids – TSS, pH, oils and fats, nitrogen and phosphorus content) was determined through laboratory analyses, and the effectiveness of existing treatment methods was evaluated [19]. In the next phase, the practical effectiveness of various treatment technologies was tested based on the experimental method. During the research, mechanical, chemical, and biological treatment methods were compared, and the changes in the composition of the water at each stage were recorded [20]. In particular, the degree of organic pollutant degradation by microorganisms in the biological treatment process and their vitality were observed [21]. Using mathematical modeling and optimization methods, the efficiency of the wastewater treatment process was analyzed. Through this approach, the interrelationship between various parameters was studied, and optimal working conditions were determined. The model results were compared with laboratory experiments, and the reliability of the obtained data was verified [22; 23]. In the final phase of the study, statistical analysis and comparison methods were applied. Based on the obtained data, graphical and tabular analyses were conducted, and the advantages and disadvantages of the existing technologies were identified. This led to recommendations for environmentally safe and economically effective technological solutions for wastewater treatment [24]. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 100 The methods used in this study played a significant role in deeply understanding the scientific foundations of wastewater treatment processes and in developing effective technologies. Results and Discussion. In enterprises, wastewater of various categories is generated. Wastewater is water that has been used for domestic purposes, production processes, or agriculture and has passed through a certain polluted area. The composition and pollution level of wastewater depend on its source, and based on its origin, wastewater can be divided into three types: domestic household wastewater, industrial wastewater, and atmospheric water. Household wastewater is generated from showers, baths, laundry, dining rooms, and other sanitary facilities, consisting of 58% organic and 42% mineral substances. It contains biogenic and organic pollutants. Atmospheric water is formed from rain and snowmelt and flows from industrial areas, and it may be saturated with organic and mineral pollutants. Industrial wastewater is produced during manufacturing processes and may contain various chemicals, des, oils, and heavy metals. In particular, synthetic des and surfactants in the textile industry pose significant ecological risks. The complex composition of wastewater makes its treatment difficult. They contain dissolved inorganic and organic compounds, suspended dispersions and colloidal mixtures, and sometimes dissolved gases. Since wastewater from the textile industry causes significant ecological problems, it is essential to effectively treat and recycle it. In this process, chemical, biological, and mechanical methods are applied to minimize the impact of water on the ecosystem. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 101 1-Figure. The appearance of liquid waste transitioning into a solid form. Industrial wastewater is treated in four main stages in specialized treatment plants. Mechanical method – Wastewater is cleared of large particles through grids and screens. Coagulation method – After undergoing initial mechanical and chemical treatment, the water is cleaned of coarse impurities and neutralized. During this process, the pH is determined using a special pH meter and adjusted to the optimal level. 1-Table. Pollutants in Wastewater and Their Compliance with Regulatory Standards № Parameter Name (Requirements) Unit of Measurement Output Water from Wastewater Treatment Plant Regulatory Document: KEN, Decree of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. 202, dated April 12, 2021 Compliance Statement 1 pH mg/dm³ 8.05 - Compliant 2 Suspended Solids mg/dm³ 15 150 Compliant 3 Total Residue mg/dm³ 3120 2000 Noncompliant 4 Chlorides mg/dm³ 95.0 350 Compliant 5 Sulfates mg/dm³ 150 100 Noncompliant 6 Dissolved Oxygen mgO₂/dm³ 1.0 - - 7 BOD₅ mgO₂/dm³ 21.0 15 Noncompliant JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 102 8 Ammonium Nitrogen (NH₄) mg/dm³ 0.116 1 Compliant 9 Nitrite Nitrogen (NNO₂) mg/dm³ 0.12 0.2 Compliant 10 Nitrate Nitrogen (NNO₃) mg/dm³ 0.017 9.1 Compliant 11 Iron Ion mg/dm³ 0.015 0.03 Compliant 12 Total Phosphorus mg/dm³ 0.368 3.0 Compliant 13 Chromium mg/dm³ 0.034 0.1 Compliant 14 Zinc mg/dm³ 0.318 1.0 Compliant The next process is flotation using aerators, where the dissolved oxygen content in the water is maintained within the range of 5.5–6 mg/l using the Oxy C-DD II measuring device. During the flotation process, pollutants with lower density than water rise to the surface and are removed mechanically through aeration (introduction of air bubbles). This method is especially effective for removing oil and grease residues, organic mixtures, and fine particles. To monitor the oxygen content, the Oxy C-DD II measuring device is used, which accurately detects the dissolved oxygen (DO) level and automatically allows for optimization. The pH level of the water is continuously monitored using a pH meter, ensuring the effectiveness of biological and chemical treatment processes. Wastewater treatment is an effective and sustainable technological process that meets environmental requirements, and these methods are widely applied in both industrial and domestic wastewater treatment. As a result of the treatment, opportunities are created for the reuse of water resources and the protection of the environment. The main stages of this process are as follows: Biological method – Organic pollutants in the water are decomposed with the help of special microorganisms. This stage helps to naturally purify the water and bring it to a cleaner state. Physicochemical method – Remaining harmful substances in the water are neutralized using special reagents. This is the final purification stage, and the water is either sent to natural water bodies or to the recycling system. Efficient wastewater treatment reduces the ecological risks for industrial enterprises and helps preserve natural water resources. The effectiveness of this process is further enhanced through modern technologies. Additionally, the key pollutants in wastewater and their regulatory values are continuously monitored, ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Efficient wastewater treatment reduces the ecological risks for industrial enterprises and helps preserve natural water resources. The effectiveness of this process is further enhanced through modern JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 103 technologies. Furthermore, the main pollutants in wastewater and their normative values are constantly monitored to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Figure 2. 3D diagram of the amount of pollutants in wastewater. The table above compares the amount of pollutants in wastewater with the normative values. To further illustrate this data, a linear 3D diagram is presented below. In the drawn circular diagram, the main acids, alkalis, and pH values in industrial wastewater are expressed as percentages. The diagram is divided into three main sections: 1. Acids (red color) – This group includes biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), sulfates, nitrite, and nitrate compounds. These components affect the acidity level of the water and are an important parameter for its ecological safety. 2. Alkalis (blue color) – Substances such as ammonium nitrogen, chlorides, total phosphorus, and zinc form an alkaline environment. These elements are present in industrial wastewater and define the hardness and overall chemical composition of the water. 3. pH value (gold color) – A parameter that indicates whether the water is in an acidic or alkaline environment. This is shown separately in the diagram, highlighting that the pH value is within normative limits. The diagram clearly shows that although there is a balance between acids and alkalis in the wastewater, some substances may exceed the normative values. Therefore, it is important to treat and neutralize these waters in accordance with ecological requirements. JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10, november 2025 ISSN: 2181-385X 104 Figure 2. The composition of pH, acids, and alkalis in wastewater Conclusion. The analysis of wastewater composition results shows that while some pollutants meet normative values, certain components exceed the allowed limits. Specifically, the concentrations of total suspended solids (3120 mg/dm³), sulfates (150 mg/dm³), BOD5 (21.0 mg/dm³), and total phosphorus (0.368 mg/dm³) are higher than the established standards. This indicates a high level of both organic and inorganic substances in the industrial wastewater. Furthermore, although the levels of ammonium nitrogen (0.116 mg/dm³), nitrite nitrogen (0.12 mg/dm³), and nitrate nitrogen (0.017 mg/dm³) are relatively low, these substances could still pose risks to the environmental ecosystem. Among the heavy metals, the concentrations of iron ions (0.015 mg/dm³), chromium (0.034 mg/dm³), and zinc (0.318 mg/dm³) are within the standard limits, but over the long term, these pollutants may have a negative impact on the environment. A comprehensive analysis indicates that wastewater treatment systems need improvement, with the application of physical, chemical, and biological methods being essential. Particularly, the introduction of modern treatment technologies to reduce organic and mineral pollutants will help protect the environment and ensure the effective use of water resources. In this regard, applying mechanical, chemical, and biological treatment methods, as well as advanced technologies (such as membrane bioreactors), can reduce ecological risks through effective wastewater treatment. Therefore, improving wastewater treatment and the development of recycling systems is of significant importance. REFERENCES 1. Smith J., Brown K. Textile Wastewater Treatment Techniques. Journal of Environmental Science. 2021; 45: 120-135. (In Uzbek) 2. Wang L., Li X. Advanced Oxidation Processes for Textile Effluents. Chemical Engineering Journal. 2020; 380: 112-126. (In Uzbek)