Design of nutrient removal activated sludge systems

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Wastewater Treatment Technologies
• Bioreactor Modeling

Background:

• Nitrification, denitrification, and enhanced biological phosphorus removal (NDEBPR) are crucial for wastewater treatment.
• Accurate modeling is essential for optimizing NDEBPR system design and performance.
• Existing models may require validation with real-world operational data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a mechanistic mathematical model for NDEBPR systems.
• To implement the model in user-friendly DESASS software for activated sludge systems.
• To confirm the model's accuracy and the software's utility for designing NDEBPR systems.

Main Methods:

• Development of a mechanistic mathematical model for nutrient and organic matter removal.
• Implementation of the model within the DESASS software package.
• Operation of a 484-L pilot plant over three years with varying sludge ages to collect verification data.

Main Results:

• The mechanistic mathematical model successfully described the behavior of the NDEBPR system.
• Pilot plant data collected over three years validated the model's predictions.
• The DESASS software proved to be a valuable tool for simulating and designing NDEBPR systems.

Conclusions:

• The developed mathematical model is a valid tool for understanding NDEBPR system dynamics.
• DESASS software provides a reliable platform for the design and simulation of NDEBPR processes.
• The study confirms the practical applicability of the model and software in wastewater treatment engineering.