Experimental and principal component analysis of waste stabilization ponds

Abstract

Waste stabilization pond system is a popular waste treatment option because of its high treatment efficiency. In spite of its popularity the underlying theory behind it is inadequately understood. Several hypotheses have tried to explain the causes of bacterial degradation. The present study is aimed at determining through principal component analysis the most important variables affecting bacterial degradation in ponds. Data were collected from literature. In addition, samples were also collected from the waste stabilization ponds at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and analyzed to determine some of the parameters influencing bacterial degradation. Based on the analysis there was significant correlation between several of the variables. The correlations between some of the parameters were corroborated by experimental values obtained. The most important principal component factors were found to be dispersion, loading and light. The result will not only facilitate effective modeling but will also help direct greater research efforts on the significant variables. Journal of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology Vol. 3(1) 2003: 25-30