Heavy metal identfication in winery wastewater

Abstract

Wastewater is generated at every stage of wine production, mostly from cleaning equipment, floors, tanks, barrels and bottles. Wastewater contains heavy metals and other toxic compounds that can pose environmental hazards risks. This study quantified the concentrations of key heavy metals (lead, chromium, manganese, copper, and iron) in wastewater from a winery at different stages of the winemaking process. The results showed that all heavy metal concentrations were consistently below the maximum permitted limits, in compliance with environmental regulations. Lead concentrations decreased significantly from 24.03 μg/L after pressing stage to 9.44 μg/L after bottling stage. Manganese showed fluctuations throughout the process, while copper concentrations decreased significantly, indicating effective removal of residues. Overall, the findings suggest that the winemaking process effectively reduces heavy metal concentrations in wastewater, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.