Kinetic data from batch tests were successfully used to predict the perform
ance of continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) systems for treating multi
component industrial wastewater. Data from both batch and continuous tests
validated the multiple zero order (MZO) approach for evaluating CSTR system
s and should prove valuable in designing full-scale continuous flow treatme
nt processes.
Treatability studies were conducted on three industrial wastewaters and one
synthetic wastewater. The MZO approach consistently predicted values for e
ffluent concentrations in appreciably closer agreement with experimental re
sults than those predicted by means of nth-order true chemical reaction.
Evaluating the continuous process should include a correction for biomass a
ctivity if the solids retention time (SRT) of the biomass in the CSTR is fo
und to be appreciably different from that of the batch reactor. This correc
tion is necessary to account for the effect of the change in biomass activi
ty resulting from different SRT on the magnitude of the biodegradation rate
coefficient.