Determination of Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) Performance in Treatment of Composting Plant Leachate

Abstract

Background: Leachate contains a large amount of pollutants that make it very complicated and expensive for treatment. Hence, leachate treatment generally requires various combined processes that must be done carefully. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) performance in treatment of composting plant leachate. Methods: In this experimental study, an aerobic biological SBR with 2 liters capacity was used for treatment of leachate from composting plant of Isfahan, Iran. The organic loading rate (OLR) increased from 0.25 to 6.3 g COD/L.d in 11 runs during 280 days. To determine the reactor performance, COD, SCOD, rbCOD, BOD5, TKN, and TP were measured in accordance with standard methods. Finally, the data were analyzed using Excel 2007 software. Results: In this study, the highest removal efficiency in SBR was obtained at 0.75 to 1.5 g COD/L.d loading rate. The maximum removal rates for COD, SCOD, rbCOD, and BOD5 were 92.45, 93.33, 99.8, and 96%, respectively. The average removal efficiencies for total nitrogen and phosphorus were 73.6 and 66.5%, respectively. Conclusions: According to the results, SBR performance in the removal of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus at low loading rates is satisfactory, while the removal efficiency decreased by increasing loading rate and decreasing retention time.