Hydrodynamics and parametric study of an activated sludge process using residence time distribution technique

Hydrodynamic study of Activated Sludge Process (ASP) is important to optimize the reactor performance and detect anomalies in the system. Residence time distribution (RTD) study has been performed using LiCl as tracer on a pilot scale aeration tank (AT) and ASP, treating the pulp and paper mill effluent. The hydraulic performance and treatment efficiency of the AT and ASP at different operating parameters like residence time, recycle rate was investigated. Flow anomalies were identified and based on the experimental data empirical models was suggested to interpret the hydrodynamics of the reactors using compartment modelling technique. The analysis of the RTD curves and the compartment models indicated increase in back-mixing ratio as the mean hydraulic retention time (MHRT) of the tank was increased. Bypassing stream was observed at lower MHRT. The fraction of dead zone in the tank increased by approximate 20-25% with increase in recycle rate. The fraction of the stagnant zone was found well below 5% for all performed experiments, which was under experimental error. The substrate removal of 91% for Chemical oxygen demand and 96% for Biochemical oxygen demand were observed for the ASP working at a hydraulic mean residence time 39 h MRT with a 20% recycling of activated sludge.