One independent variable rate equation describing utilization of biodegradable organic matter in activated sludge processes

摘要

This investigation aims to represent aerobic utilization of biodegradable organic matter present in wastewater by a rate equation. This rate equation can then be used to develop a substrate utilization (removal) kinetic model for unsteady state activated sludge process. To achieve this objective, theoretical utilization of biodegradable organic matter in batch process and growth pattern theory were studied. Also, experimental data representing removal of organic matter in different types of wastewaters were collected and analyzed for batch and continuous activated sludge assays A rate equation was proposed to describe the utilization of biodegradable organic matter based on theoretical analysis of batch process. This rate equation was then verified through differential and integral analysis of the experimental data. Furthermore, a substrate kinetic model for batch and continuous processes was developed. The developed rate equation will facilitate the analysis and design of sequencing batch reactor (SBR) technology for biological treatment of wastewater.