System Dynamics Modeling of Biological Reactors For Waste Water Treatment

Bhakta Kabi Das
Manas Bandyopadhyay
Pratap K. J. Mohapatra


DOI: 10.2190/2X4N-UGMW-4M4P-TCH2

Abstract

This article presents a system dynamics model of an activated sludge plant that is used to treat waste water biologically under aerobic conditions. Three different physical flows (flow of liquid, biomass, and substrate) are considered in the model. the model is simulated with the help of IGRASP (software package). the transient and steady state behavior of the growth of biomass, sludge production, the treatment efficiency, and their sensitivity to parameter variations are studied in detail. Policies for recirculation of activated biomass in the treatment plant are evaluated. At the end, the article assesses the merits of system dynamics modeling as a tool for conceptualizing relationships, integrating knowledge about separate parts, and evaluating control policies in environmental systems.

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