Factors influencing physicochemical characteristics of faecal sludge in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Abstract Comprehensive knowledge of faecal sludge characteristics is needed for management planning, but it lacking the city Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Thus, this study characterised physicochemical properties from households in Penh and related these to containment unit type, age, connectedness urban drainage network, type wastewater captured, watertight units, number users, emptying practices. In total, 194 samples collected during were analysed parameters. Information on units was a survey emptiers users. Mean values chemical parameters found be slightly lower than previously reported low-/middle-income countries, whereas within similar ranges. The main factor influencing organic matter content connection practice capture only blackwater affected nutrient levels. concentrations nutrients pollutants greatly exceeded Cambodian discharge standards wastewater. This causes environmental impacts, so treatment before discharge. factors identified here can serve as baseline sanitation stakeholders planning systems cities.