Evaluation of septic tanks performance in some parts of Mosul City in Iraq

Abstract

Septic tanks are still a common method of treatment and disposal of domestic wastewater in many parts of the world. Their removal efficiency of potential pollutants depends on many parameters. In Mosul city and due to the absence of the sewerage system, dwellings are provided with individual septic tanks. An investigation of these tanks showed a good percent removal of pollutants. Some constructional defects and faulty location of some arrangements had affected tank performances. Soil type necessitated rapid desludging or effluent overflow which might affect the environment. An oversizing of the tanks might cause some constructional danger. Besides, it added an overburden cost to the owner. The study set some recommendations to uprate tank performance and ascertained the importance of providing the city with sewerage system.