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[Optimization of a modified UCT step feed process treating municipal wastewater]
Shi-Jian Ge1, Yong-Zhen Peng, Xu Cao
1Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China. gl-222@tom.com
Huan Jing Ke Xue= Huanjing Kexue
|September 20, 2011
Summary
This study demonstrates a modified UCT step feed process effectively removes organic matter and nutrients from municipal wastewater. The process achieved high removal efficiencies for chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and phosphorus, with excellent sludge settleability.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Wastewater Management
Background:
- Municipal wastewater treatment plants require efficient processes for nutrient and organic matter removal.
- Lower COD/N ratios in wastewater present challenges for conventional treatment methods.
- The UCT (University of Cape Town) process is a known biological nutrient removal strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a pilot-scale modified UCT step feed process for municipal wastewater treatment.
- To investigate the impact of influent distribution and nutrient ratios (COD/N, COD/P, TN/P) on removal efficiencies.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of organic and nutrient removal and analyze sludge characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Implementation and continuous operation of a pilot-scale modified UCT step feed process.
- Systematic variation of influent distribution ratios and nutrient ratios.
- Monitoring of key performance indicators: COD, NH4+-N, TN, and phosphorus removal efficiencies.
- Analysis of sludge characteristics, including sludge volume index (SVI).
Main Results:
- Achieved stable and high performance with average COD removal efficiency of 83.8% and effluent concentration of 43.7 mg/L.
- Demonstrated high total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency of 88.2% at a specific influent distribution ratio.
- Reported excellent phosphorus removal efficiency of 97.2%, significantly contributed by denitrifying phosphorus accumulating organisms (DPAOs).
- Identified linear positive relationships between nitrogen removal and COD/N, and phosphorus removal and influent COD/P and TN/P ratios.
Conclusions:
- The modified UCT step feed process is effective for treating municipal wastewater with lower COD/N.
- Optimized influent distribution and nutrient ratios are crucial for maximizing nutrient removal.
- The process promotes the proliferation of DPAOs, enhancing biological phosphorus removal.
- The study provides valuable insights for designing and operating large-scale wastewater treatment plants for efficient nutrient management.
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