P removal from anaerobic supernatants by struvite crystallization: long term validation and process modelling

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Crystallization Science

Background:

• Phosphorus removal from wastewater is crucial for preventing eutrophication.
• Existing models for phosphorus crystallization have limitations in describing fluidized bed reactor performance.
• Fluidized bed reactors offer potential for efficient phosphorus recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a validated model for phosphorus crystallization in a fluidized bed reactor.
• To extend the model's applicability to lower contact times and longer operational periods.
• To review current phosphorus removal technologies and crystallization models.

Main Methods:

• Development and validation of a mathematical model for phosphorus crystallization.
• Experimental data from a semiscale pilot plant were used for model verification.
• Comparative analysis with existing phosphorus crystallization models and technologies.

Main Results:

• The proposed model accurately describes experimental results from the pilot plant.
• Model validity was confirmed at lower contact times and extended experimental durations.
• The study provides insights into long-term process behavior and maximum crystal growth.

Conclusions:

• The developed model offers improved prediction capabilities for phosphorus crystallization in fluidized bed reactors.
• This work contributes to the optimization of phosphorus recovery processes in wastewater treatment.
• The findings support the application of fluidized bed reactors for sustainable phosphorus management.