Efficiency of the removal of organic carbon with activated sludge under varying N-P-K feeding inputs
Two 4L activated sludge reactors (Husmann units) are exploited in parallel in the laboratory in order to assess
the influence of slight changes in the N-P-K feeding pattern.
Cautious operation of the two units shows that it is possible to maintain the two cultures in similar state even
if they are operated within the laboratory during several weeks continuously. After two months of continusous operation
the sludge volume index is observed to degrade significantly, and the efficiency of wastewater treatment
(percentage of COD removal) is decreasing accordingly.
The role of potassium as an agent in activated sludge metabolism is planned to be studied with the
help of the two parallel units. The presence of potassium in practically all natural protein source is a critical
issue in devising the appropriate feeding diilution water.
Contact for further information: mikeverb@ulb.ac.be
