The report gives results of experimental work showing that wastewater from a textile dyeing and finishing operation can be recycled. The wastewater was run through a set of hyperfiltration membranes, which separated it into purified water and a very concentrated dye residue fraction. Over the 15-month evaluation, up to 90% of the wastewater was recovered and was found to be a satisfactory substitute for the normal water supply in all parts of the dyeing operation. A total of 1,348 meters of first quality fabric was produced during this period. The concentrated dye residue can also be used to dye fabric in the dyeing operation. The cost of recycling the wastewater was projected to be $0.121 per cubic meter of wastewater. However, reusing the wastewater results in a potential savings of $0.234 per cubic meter, offsetting the operating cost. The textile industry presents an excellent opportunity for recycling industrial wastewater after treatment with hyperfiltration membranes. The direct recycle will achieve pollution abatement with significant reduction in operating costs brought about by savings in water, chemicals, and energy. Results are being studied further by EPA at several other textile plants in cooperation with the South Carolina Textile Manufacturers Association and Clemson University.

Prepared under grant no. S800929, ROAP no. 21AZT-006, program element no. 1BBO36. "March 1976." Cover title. Includes bibliographical references.