Updating a model of pulp and paper wastewater treatment in a partial-mix aerated stabilization basin system

A relatively simple set of calculations was presented in 1994 to evaluate the effectiveness of each ASB cell as reactor, clarifier, and digester. The steady-state model, which incorporated estimates of solids settling and benthal feedback of BOD(5) and nutrients, has been a reasonable diagnostic tool for municipal and industrial applications. Results have aided in understanding normal system function, the nature of chronic inefficiencies of individual systems, and appropriate modifications to meet changes in discharge requirements. For applications in the pulp and paper industry, several changes have been incorporated recently. Nitrogen limitation is not needed in modeling pulp and paper ASB reactions. Slowly biodegradable material is modeled as a contributor to soluble BOD(5), and this contribution becomes a significant factor in the latter segments of an ASB. Phosphorus availability is modeled as a stoichiometric control of soluble BOD(5) uptake. Anoxic microorganisms are assumed to be responsible for a portion of the soluble BOD(5) consumption in the first ASB aeration zone. Finally, the long-term nutrient capture in ASBs is modeled as 3% for nitrogen and 28% for phosphorus.