Dynamical Modelling of an Activated Sludge System of a Petrochemical Plant Operating at High Temperature

Dynamical modeling of an activated sludge system of a petrochemical plant operating at high temperatures was conducted. The wastewater contained volatile organic carbon substances classified as toxics. The old surface aeration system was changed for the bubble diffusers; though, one major drawback of the new aeration system was that the temperature in the bioreactor increased due to the compression of the air, which at the compressor exit reached 85 degree C. The high temperatures reduced the microorganism activity and caused a higher volatilization rate of volatile compounds, among other effects, which affected the performance of the biological treatment. The model was obtained from tests that were carried out in laboratory reactors with 14 L capacity, which were operated at different temperatures, with the same wastewater and conditions as the actual systems.