Extension of ASM3 for two-step nitrification and denitrification and its calibration and validation with batch tests and pilot scale data

Abstract

Although traditionally not taken into account by most of activated sludge models the production of nitrite as an intermediate of the nitrification–denitrification processes becomes of interest in some specific plant operational situations or in case of high sensitivity of the receiving ecosystems. The Activated Sludge Model No.3 (ASM3) was therefore extended for two-step nitrification and two-step denitrification in order to better describe nitrite dynamics especially during the treatment of communal wastewater. Nitrite was included as a new model compound and as an intermediate product of biological processes, both for heterotrophic and autotrophic bacteria. Two new model compounds replace X A, the original autotrophic biomass: Ammonium Oxidizing Bacteria, X AOB and Nitrite Oxidizing Bacteria, X NOB. Growth and decay processes of nitrifiers were split into AOB and NOB processes (3 additional processes) and heterotrophic anoxic processes were also doubled in order to account for two-step denitrification (4 additional processes). Default values from literature as well as laboratory measurements were considered for the choice of kinetic and stoichiometric parameters. The model was calibrated and validated with laboratory scale tests in batch reactors and with data from an Eawag activated sludge pilot plant configured conventionally with nitrification and pre-denitrification for the treatment of communal wastewater.