Critical analysis of decay rate measurement methodology

Abstract

In modeling studies, estimation of microorganisms kinetic parameters set is a key element for proper model operation and predictability. Nitrification process is very often, a crucial element of the wastewater treatment systems as bacteria responsible for ammonium and nitrite oxidation are slow growing microorganisms, making whole nitrification process vulnerable to external factors i.e. temperature, inhibition and load fluctuations. Growth and decay rate of nitrifiers decide about amount nitrifying biomass in the wastewater treatment plants, thus the nitrification efficiency. Paper presents analysis of the decay rate (ba) estimation methodology based on respirometric assays measuring the oxygen uptake rate (OUR). Evaluation of this simple and cheap method was made based on decay estimation tests performed on sludge samples from side-stream partial nitritation reactor treating reject water from digested sludge dewatering. Database obtained from these tests were analyzed to evaluate the impact of respirometric assay duration on calculated decay rate values. 11 time ranges were selected for the performed analysis. Calculated ba values were compared showing the optimal test duration between 5–6 hours, while test shorter than 2 hours resulted in unsatisfactory ba outcome.