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Published on: December 25, 2015
Modelling and parameter optimisation for performance evaluation of sequencing batch reactor for treating hospital
Nadeem A Khan1, Rachida El Morabet2, Roohul Abad Khan3
1Department of Civil Engineering, Mewat Engineering College, 122107 Nuh, Haryana, India.
Hospital wastewater treatment using sequencing batch reactors and tube-settlers effectively removed phosphate but struggled with complete nitrification-denitrification. Optimization of operational parameters is key for enhanced performance in treating complex hospital effluents.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Water Treatment Technology
Background:
- Hospital wastewater presents complex treatment challenges due to its varied composition.
- Effective removal of organic matter and nutrients is crucial for environmental protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) coupled with a tube-settler for hospital wastewater treatment.
- To optimize operational parameters for improved removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate, and phosphate.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the removal efficiency of organic matter and nutrients (nitrate, phosphate).
- Employed Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a central composite design (CCD) for parameter optimization using Design-Expert software.
- Monitored COD, nitrate, and phosphate removal percentages.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 60% removal efficiency for phosphate.
- Observed nitrification in the SBR and tube-settler system.
- Complete denitrification was not achieved, indicating an incomplete nitrification-denitrification process.
Conclusions:
- The SBR-tube-settler system shows potential for phosphate removal from hospital wastewater.
- Further optimization is needed to achieve complete nitrification-denitrification.
- Understanding and optimizing operational parameters are essential for enhancing treatment efficiency.
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