Experiences in wastewater characterization and model calibration for the activated sludge process

Simulation models of the activated sludge process are believed to be a useful tool for process optimization and trouble-shooting at today's treatment plant. However, the application of the models is limited at most treatment plants due to lack of advanced input of parameter values required by the model. Simplification of the procedures of wastewater characterization was investigated. Characterization work was reduced to two oxygen utilization measurements and two COD analyses. Model calibration is demonstrated with experimental data from Kungsängen municipal wastewater treatment plant in Uppsala, Sweden.