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Rapid automated detection of nitrification kinetics using respirometry
G Langergraber1, M Wuchty, N Fleischmann
1Department for Sanitary Engineering and Water Pollution Control (IWGA-SIG), University of Agricultural Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Muthgasse 1B, A-1 190 Vienna, Austria. langergraber@iwga-sig.boku.ac.at
Summary
Respirometry can now quickly measure wastewater nitrification kinetics and inhibition. This new method speeds up experiments by starting with low ammonia concentrations, improving wastewater treatment plant assessment.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Respirometry is valuable for wastewater treatment but not widely adopted for plant control or optimization.
- Conventional methods for determining nitrification kinetics are time-consuming.
- Nitrification is a key process in wastewater treatment, influencing effluent quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a faster method for measuring nitrification kinetics.
- To enable on-line detection of nitrification inhibition.
- To improve the utility of respirometry in wastewater treatment assessment.
Main Methods:
- A modified respirometry approach was employed, termed 'turning over' the experiment.
- Experiments were initiated with low ammonia concentrations to measure the steep slope of the Monod curve.
- The method focuses on the low-concentration branch of the Monod curve for kinetic and inhibition analysis.
Main Results:
- The proposed procedure significantly speeds up the measurement of nitrification kinetics.
- Nitrification inhibition can be detected on-line using this accelerated method.
- The method allows for the characterization of the low-concentration kinetic range.
Conclusions:
- This respirometry technique offers a faster and more efficient way to assess nitrification kinetics.
- The ability to perform on-line inhibition detection enhances process control and optimization potential.
- The method addresses the limitations of conventional, time-intensive kinetic measurements in wastewater treatment.