Dynamic model of algal-bacterial shortcut nitrogen removal in photo-sequencing batch reactors

This study investigated algal-bacterial shortcut nitrogen removal (SNR) in photo-sequencing batch reactors (PSBRs) for treatment of high ammonium strength wastewater using both experimental and modeling approaches. Bench-scale PSBR studies were carried out under alternating light dark cycles, provided aerobic anoxic conditions that promoted nitritation/ denitritation. Total efficiencies >90% achieved when favorable operating conditions, including solids retention time (SRT) organic inorganic carbon availability, applied the functional microorganisms. A dynamic model was developed to simulate conversions species activity algae, ammonia oxidizing, nitrite oxidizing heterotrophic bacteria. In addition, biomass wasting during each cycle estimated by maintain targeted SRT. The able capture dynamics removal, substrate utilization generation varying can potentially be used large scale design optimization. • High algae Shortcut light/dark periods. Model dissolved particulate conversion. elucidated process daily cycles long-term operation.