Development of Pollutant Specific Models for Toxic Organic Compounds in the Activated Sludge Process

Abstract

The concept of pollutant specific models in completely mixed biological recycle reactors is developed. Pollutant specific Monod constants are developed by considering substrate utilization, cell growth, and endogenous decay rates based solely on influent and effluent specific pollutant concentrations. In this way, models are developed which predict specific pollutant removal in biological reactors. Three nonvolatile compounds are evaluated; namely, phenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, and 2,4-dinitrophenol and their respective specific Monod constants determined. A pollutant specific model for concurrent biodegradation and volatilization is also developed. A mathematical method for evaluating the pollutant specific Monod constants independent of volatilization kinetics is derived for the volatile compounds dinitrobenzene and carbon tetrachloride. Control strategies are discussed which emphasize the rate limiting pollutant concept. Conclusions are drawn as to the applicability and limitations of pollutant specific models.