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Measuring Phosphorus Release in Laboratory Microcosms for Water Quality Assessment
Published on: July 22, 2019
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Developing a system dynamics model for prediction of phosphorus in facultative stabilization ponds
Ebrahim Shahsavani1, Ali Asghar Ebrahimi2, Mohammad Hassan Ehrampoush2
1Research Center for Social Determinates of Health, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
AMB Express
|September 27, 2019
Summary
System dynamics modeling of phosphorus in facultative ponds reveals settling and algal respiration are key factors. This approach aids in optimizing pond management and phosphorus removal strategies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Quality Management
- Ecological Modeling
Background:
- Facultative stabilization ponds are crucial for wastewater treatment.
- Phosphorus management is essential for preventing eutrophication.
- System dynamics offers a robust framework for analyzing complex environmental systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a system dynamics model for phosphorus in facultative stabilization ponds.
- To identify key factors influencing phosphorus concentration and removal.
- To provide a tool for effective pond management.
Main Methods:
- Development of a system dynamics model using VenSim PLE 7.1 software.
- Determination of stock, specifications, and parameters for soluble reactive phosphorus.
- Calibration and verification of the model using data from Yazd facultative ponds, Iran.
Main Results:
- Sensitivity analysis identified phosphorus settling rate and algal respiration as primary drivers of phosphorus concentration.
- Algal growth rate and phosphorus settling rate significantly impact phosphorus removal efficiency.
- Factors like herbivorous zooplankton losses and carbon-to-phosphorus ratios had minimal impact.
Conclusions:
- The developed system dynamics model effectively simulates phosphorus dynamics in facultative ponds.
- Optimizing retention time and understanding settling rates are crucial for effective phosphorus management.
- The model serves as a valuable tool for assessing and managing facultative pond performance.
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