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NH4+ ad-/desorption in sequencing batch reactors: simulation, laboratory and full-scale studies
P Schwitalla1, A Mennerich, U Austermann-Haun
1Department of Civil Engineering, University of Applied Sciences Lippe und Hoexter, Emilienstr. 45, 32756, Detmold, Germany.
Summary
Ammonium-nitrogen balance deficits in wastewater treatment plants are caused by dynamic adsorption/desorption to activated flocs. Optimizing filling phases is crucial to prevent wastewater breakthrough and ensure treatment efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Treatment
Background:
- Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) often exhibit significant ammonium-nitrogen (NH4-N) balance deficits.
- These deficits complicate dynamic simulation studies and plant calibration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms behind NH4-N balance deficits in full-scale SBR WWTPs.
- To identify the causes of dynamic, cycle-specific ammonium adsorption/desorption to activated flocs.
Main Methods:
- Field measurements at five full-scale SBR WWTPs.
- Laboratory-scale investigations.
- Analysis of ammonium (NH4+) and potassium (K+) adsorption/desorption dynamics.
Main Results:
- A general mechanism involving NH4+ desorption at the end of nitrification and adsorption during filling phases was identified.
- This NH4+ ad-/desorption was found to be antiparallel to K+ ad-/desorption.
- A controlled filling phase during sedimentation was tested, requiring hydraulic control to prevent clear water contamination.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic NH4+ ad-/desorption to activated flocs is a primary cause of balance deficits in SBR WWTPs.
- Understanding these dynamics is key for accurate simulation and calibration.
- Optimized hydraulic control of filling phases is essential for effective wastewater treatment and preventing discharge of untreated water.
