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Oxygen transfer in a full-depth biological aerated filter
Michael K Stenstrom1, Diego Rosso, Henryk Melcer
1Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
Summary
Biological aerated filters (BAFs) show high oxygen transfer efficiency in wastewater treatment. This study confirms BAFs outperform traditional diffusers due to media and biofilm interactions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
- Oxygen Transfer
Background:
- Biological aerated filters (BAFs) are an advanced wastewater treatment technology.
- Evaluating BAF performance is crucial for optimizing treatment processes.
- Previous oxygen transfer data for BAFs at full depth was limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To independently evaluate the oxygen-transfer capabilities of BAFs at full depth.
- To compare the performance of BAFs from two different manufacturers.
- To validate oxygen transfer rates using mass balance methods.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a 1-year pilot-plant evaluation of BAF technology.
- Performed independent oxygen-transfer tests using the offgas method at full depth.
- Utilized mass balances with chemical oxygen demand and dissolved organic carbon to corroborate transfer rates.
Main Results:
- Process-water oxygen-transfer efficiencies ranged from 1.6 to 5.8%/m and 3.9 to 7.9%/m for the two pilot plants.
- Observed higher oxygen transfer rates compared to fine-pore diffusers under similar conditions.
- Mass balance data confirmed the measured oxygen transfer rates.
Conclusions:
- BAFs demonstrate superior oxygen transfer efficiency compared to conventional fine-pore diffusers.
- Extended bubble retention time due to media and biofilm interactions significantly enhances oxygen transfer.
- BAF technology offers a promising solution for efficient oxygen transfer in wastewater treatment plants.
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