The adsorption/bio-oxidation process is used for treatment of industrial wastewater with high COD, including wastewater from:
* Pulp and paper industry
* Textile industry
* Food industry, including dairy industry
* Pharmaceutical industry
* Leather tanning industry
The C/N and C/P ratios of industrial wastewater is often too high for complete aerobic biodegradation of the influent organic matter, even after the adsorption stage. Addition of nutrients prior to bio-oxidation stage is required in these cases.