Dynamic behavior of the activated sludge process under shock loading: Application of the floc model

An integrated system model is developed for an activated sludge system which not only couples the floc behavior to changes in the bulk liquid characteristics but also takes into account the floc size distribution in terms of mass in the reacting system. Intensive simulation is then carried out based on the comprehensive model developed to assess the impact of shock loading on the plant dynamic behavior and to build an understanding of the importance of the floc effects. Simulation results show that more complex dynamic behavior due to the floc effects is likely to occur under severe shock loads which must be considered in the development of the control policy for a safer and better operating performance.