Analysis of the activated sludge model (number 1)

Abstract

We analyse a model for the activated sludge process occurring in a biological reactor without recycle. The biochemical processes occurring within the reactor are represented by the activated sludge model number 1 (ASM1). In the past the ASM1 model has been investigated via direct integration of the governing equations. This approach is time-consuming as parameter regions of interest (in terms of the effluent quality leaving the plant) can only be determined through laborious and repetitive calculations. In this work we use continuation methods to determine the steady-state behaviour of the system. In particular, we determine bifurcation values of the residence time, corresponding to branch points, that are crucial in determining the performance of the plant.