WASTE-WATER TREATMENT WITH BIOFILMS - ESTIMATION OF BIOKINETIC PARAMETERS USING A SEGMENTED COLUMN

This study describes a technique for estimating biokinetic and mass tr ansfer parameters for biofilm processes in wastewater treatment. The r eactor used consisted of a column divided into separate units packed w ith expanded clay pellets. Samples were taken at the exit of each unit . Oxygen mass transfer and oxygen consumption rate were determined. Th e system was operated with cocurrent upflows of air and industrial was tewater. A mathematical approach was developed to estimate biokinetic parameters such as the maximal oxygen removal rate, saturation constan t and internal diffusion coefficient. (C) 1998 SCI.