Industry-first trial: Tanfloc improves wastewater treatment performance

Research funded by the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) has shown that Tanfloc, a tannin-based coagulant, effectively improves wastewater treatment performance following an industry-first trial at a red meat processing plant in New South Wales.  

Currently, traditional metal-based coagulants, such as aluminium salts, are used in wastewater treatment at red meat processing plants. However, these solutions can present issues, including equipment corrosion, pH instability, increasing operational costs and unfavourable downstream environmental impacts.

These challenges prompted AMPC to invest in research to validate a more sustainable, natural alternative, Tanfloc.

A 30-day full-scale trial led by Tanfloc Australia and Tessele Consultants assessed Tanfloc's ability to improve water quality while supporting better environmental outcomes.

The trial validated that Tanfloc significantly improved wastewater treatment outcomes, including a 94 per cent removal of Fats, Oils, and Greases (FOGs), which is critical for preventing ammonia inhibition in anaerobic digestion and ensuring optimal biogas production.

AMPC Program Manager Matthew Deegan said, "The successful application of Tanfloc demonstrates its potential for wider adoption across the red meat processing industry."

"With no major technical barriers and seamless integration into existing wastewater treatment systems, Tanfloc offers a practical pathway to improving sustainability outcomes in wastewater management, bioenergy, and decarbonisation."

The trial showed improved sludge capture and lower disposal costs. Unlike metal-based coagulants, Tanfloc does not acidify wastewater or require additional chemicals for pH adjustment, reducing corrosion risks and maintenance costs.

Other key results:

• Eighty-six per cent removal of Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
• Sixty-three per cent reduction in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
• Fifty-five per cent reduction in Total Nitrogen (TN)
• Fifty-eight per cent reduction in Total Phosphorus (TP)
• Twenty-one per cent reduction in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
  
  

Matthew said, "While Tanfloc has a slightly higher unit cost than metal-based coagulants, its lower volume dosing requirements and reduced need for pH correction can help deliver overall savings."

"An initial economic assessment indicated potential for a one-year payback period, factoring in energy savings from less aeration, and increased value in by-product recovery."

"The next phase of the research will deliver a full-scale demonstration to verify detailed situational costs and savings over a 12-month period."

This research was also recognised by the Australian Water Association, winning the WA Water Award for Innovating Sustainable Water and Environmental Outcomes in November 2025.