Powdered keramsite as unconventional method of AGS technology support in GSBR reactor with minimum-optimum OLR

Abstract

Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS) technology becomes a very competitive method to activated sludge system. Its main advantages include: high energy efficiency and low investment costs. Despite this fact, intensive research on biogranulation optimization are still carried out, both at laboratory and technical scale. In order to intensify the AGS technology, new methods of biogranulation and ways of improving the stability of aerobic granules are sought. So far, several studies have been conducted in this area, with using among others: chemical coagulants, dosage fragments of granules and powdered materials. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of powdered keramsite on the feasibility of rapid aerobic granulation in a GSBR reactor with a minimum-optimum organic loading rate (OLR). The research presents an effective way of cultivating stable aerobic granules in a Granular Sequencing Batch Reactor (GSBR) under specific technological parameters.