Effects of nanoscale zero-valent iron particles on biological nitrogen and phosphorus removal and microorganisms in activated sludge.

Highlights: [•] Effects of NZVI on biological nitrogen and phosphorus removal were investigated. [•] The cytotoxicity of NZVI to activated sludge was measured. [•] The effects of NZVI on sludge microbial activity and biomass were evaluated. [•] High throughput 16S rDNA pyrosequencing was used to study the microbial composition. [•] Sensitive bacteria to NZVI particles were found. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]