A unified modelling framework for type I (discrete) settling and rising of microplastics in primary sedimentation tanks

Abstract

Sewage treatment plants (STPs) are considered as a significant source of microplastic pollution into the terrestrial and aquatic environment. Existing observations suggest that primary treatment accounts for major microplastics removal in STPs, though with high variability due to the complex nature of the polymer compositions, abundance, and sizes in the incoming sewage. Here, we develop a unified modelling framework to simulate the Type I (or discrete) settling or rising behaviour of microplastics to predict their eventual fate in Primary Sedimentation Tank (PST). The model was developed as per the conventional design protocol for PST involving Stokes equation and modifications as per flow regime for settling of nylon and polystyrene microplastics. It was subsequently validated with independent column experiments for both settling (nylon and polystyrene) and rising (low-density polyethylene and polypropylene) microplastics in different size ranges. The validated model was then applied for multiple realistic scenarios of polymer compositions, relative abundance, and size distributions in the incoming sewage. The model predicts removals ranging from 12% to 94% for a mixture of microplastics in the size fraction 0–500 μm. Model simulations also suggest better microplastics removal with the integration of skimming in PST, and optimization of surface overflow velocity.