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ABACO-2: a comprehensive model for microalgae-bacteria consortia validated outdoor at pilot-scale.
Rebecca Nordio1, Enrique Rodríguez-Miranda2, Francesca Casagli3
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Almería, E04120 Almería, Spain; CIESOL Solar Energy Research Centre, Joint Centre University of Almería-CIEMAT, 04120 Almería, Spain.
Water Research
|November 20, 2023
Summary
The ABACO-2 model accurately predicts microalgae-bacteria consortia dynamics in wastewater treatment. This enhanced model simplifies parameter identification and improves biomass and nutrient predictions for sustainable wastewater management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Biochemical Engineering
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
Background:
- Microalgae-bacteria consortia are crucial for efficient wastewater treatment.
- Accurate modeling is needed to optimize these systems.
- Existing models require further refinement for practical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an enhanced microalgae-bacteria modeling tool, ABACO-2.
- To improve the prediction accuracy of biomass and nutrient dynamics.
- To simplify parameter identification for practical use.
Main Methods:
- Developed ABACO-2 by enhancing the original ABACO model.
- Incorporated new equations for nutrient yields, oxygen balance, and decay.
- Validated the model using data from an 80 m² outdoor pilot-scale raceway reactor over 206 days.
Main Results:
- ABACO-2 demonstrated improved accuracy in predicting biomass concentration (microalgae, heterotrophic, and nitrifying bacteria).
- The model successfully forecasted nutrient evolution and population dynamics.
- Reduced calibrated parameters simplified the model's parameter identification process.
Conclusions:
- ABACO-2 provides a robust and accurate tool for characterizing microalgae-bacteria consortia dynamics.
- The model aids in optimizing microalgae-based wastewater treatment processes.
- Mathematical modeling is vital for the sustainable development of the wastewater treatment industry.
