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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Comparison of Scale in a Photosynthetic Reactor System for Algal Remediation of Wastewater

Comparison of Scale in a Photosynthetic Reactor System for Algal Remediation of Wastewater

Published on: March 6, 2017

Evaluation of simultaneous nutrient removal and sludge reduction using laboratory scale sequencing batch reactors.

Tania Datta¹, Yanjie Liu, Ramesh Goel

¹Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Utah, 122 South Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.

|May 5, 2009

Summary

This study demonstrates a novel method for sludge reduction in wastewater treatment, achieving a 63% decrease in excess sludge while maintaining high nutrient removal efficiencies. The modified sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process effectively managed sludge accumulation and improved effluent quality.

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Development of Sulfidogenic Sludge from Marine Sediments and Trichloroethylene Reduction in an Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket Reactor

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Published on: October 15, 2015

Area of Science:

Environmental Engineering
Water Treatment Technologies
Microbial Ecology in Wastewater Treatment

Background:

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) face significant challenges in managing and disposing of excess sludge.
Sludge production contributes substantially to operational costs and environmental concerns.
Efficient nutrient removal is crucial for preventing eutrophication of receiving water bodies.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate a modified sequencing batch reactor (SBR) for simultaneous sludge reduction and nutrient removal.
To assess the effectiveness of feasting and fasting cycles on biomass yield.
To optimize operational parameters for sustainable sludge management in WWTPs.

Main Methods:

Laboratory-scale SBRs were operated for 370 days under different solids retention times (SRTs).
A modified-SBR subjected recycled biomass to feasting and fasting phases at varying SRTs.
Biomass yield and nutrient removal efficiencies (ammonia and phosphorus) were monitored.
Biomass wastage strategies were adjusted in phase III to control accumulation.

Main Results:

The modified-SBR achieved a 63% reduction in sludge yield compared to the control-SBR (0.17 mg TSS/mg COD).
High ammonia (NH3) removal (< detection limit) and phosphorus (P) removal (84-90%) were sustained.
Initial biomass accumulation in the modified-SBR was controlled by direct wastage in phase III, achieving an overall 100-day SRT.
Consistent denitrification was observed in both systems without external carbon sources.

Conclusions:

The modified SBR strategy effectively reduces sludge production while ensuring high nutrient removal performance.
Feasting and fasting cycles, combined with controlled SRT and biomass wastage, are key to achieving significant sludge reduction.
This approach offers a promising solution for sustainable and cost-effective wastewater treatment.