Use of phosphorus release batch tests for modelling an EBPR pilot plant

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Wastewater Treatment Technologies
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) is crucial for wastewater treatment.
• Activated sludge models like ASM2d are used for simulating EBPR processes.
• Accurate modeling requires reliable input parameters, including phosphorus release rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of routine phosphorus release tests for calibrating activated sludge models (ASM2d).
• To improve the predictive accuracy of EBPR models using pilot plant data.
• To establish a methodology for integrating laboratory-derived parameters into wastewater treatment simulations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a pilot plant with extensive analysis for EBPR simulations.
• Performed model calibration using a low organic loading period with daily influent measurements.
• Adjusted model parameters including fermentation rate and PHA uptake rate to match laboratory phosphorus release data.
• Verified the calibrated model using data from a subsequent period with acetate dosing.

Main Results:

• Initial model predictions without calibration showed poor phosphorus removal accuracy.
• Calibration significantly improved the model's ability to predict effluent COD, MLVSS, and phosphorus removal.
• The adjusted model successfully simulated phosphorus release rates consistent with laboratory findings.
• The calibrated model demonstrated reliable performance during verification with acetate dosing.

Conclusions:

• Routine phosphorus release tests are valuable for calibrating activated sludge models for EBPR.
• Model calibration enhances the accuracy of predicting phosphorus removal in wastewater treatment.
• Integrating laboratory data into models improves the simulation of biological nutrient removal processes.