What characteristic differentiates the various types of media used in wastewater treatment?

The characteristic that differentiates the various types of media used in wastewater treatment is material composition. Different types of media are made from various materials such as plastic, glass, sand, or other substances, each having unique properties that influence their effectiveness in specific treatment processes. For instance, plastic media may be used in trickling filters due to their light weight and resistance to corrosion, while sand is commonly used in filtration processes because of its ability to trap particles.

While size of openings, shape, and weight can play roles in how media functions, the material composition directly impacts the media's chemical and physical interactions in the treatment environment, ultimately affecting the efficiency and performance of the treatment process. The choice of media material is crucial for ensuring compatibility with the wastewater characteristics and the specific treatment goals, making material composition a key differentiator among available options.