The effects of varied concentrations of a natural sewage grease on the oxidative activities of activated sludge were investigated in an effort to determine the feasibility of using activated sludge as a treatment method for wastes high in grease content.

The method employed to measure the oxidative activities of the activated sludge was the standard Warburg respirometer technique. Cumulative net BOD curves were plotted to determine the magnitude of the oxidation. Total grease analyses were performed throughout the test period to establish a definitive pattern of depletion by oxidation.

The experimental results indicated that the grease was completely assimulated within 24 hours and that there were no adverse pH changes during the course of oxidation.

On the basis of the experimental evidence activated sludge shows great promise as a treatment method for wastes high in grease content.