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Hydraulic Modelling and Optimization of a Wastewater Treatment System for Developing Nations Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Olukanni, D. O. and Adekalu, K.O. and Ducoste, J.J. (2012) Hydraulic Modelling and Optimization of a Wastewater Treatment System for Developing Nations Using Computational Fluid Dynamics. In: 2012 International Conference on Clean Technology and Engineering Management (ICCEM 2012), 12th-15th, Mechanical Engineering,Covenant University,Ota,Nigeria.

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Abstract

Waste stabilization pond (WSP) is globally one of the most popular wastewater treatment options because of its high efficiency and low cost. However, no rigorous assessment of WSPs that account for cost in addition to hydrodynamics and treatment efficiency has been performed. A study was conducted that utilized Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) coupled with an optimization program to optimize the selection of the best WSP configuration based on cost and treatment efficiency. Several designs generated by the CFD/optimization model showed that both shorter and longer baffles, alternative depths, and reactor length to width ratios could improve the hydraulic efficiency of the ponds at a reduced overall construction cost. In addition, a study was conducted on the optimized WSP which consisted of an anaerobic, facultative, and a maturation stage whose baffle orientation, length to width ratio, was specified by a CFD model prediction and was compared with a three stage WSP designed according to literature suggested reactor geometric configurations. Experimental tests were performed on a pilot scale version of the threestage WSP where the removal performance was based on a number of parameters (Faecal coliform, pH, TDS, and Conductivity). Results showed that the significantly lower cost design based on the optimized CFD simulations displayed slightly better removal performance compared to the standard WSP design developed from literature data. The results of this study clearly showed that unit treatment process designs based on rigorous numerical optimization can aid in producing cost effective designs that make it more possible for developing nations to incorporate adequate and effective sanitation.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects: T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Engineering, Science and Mathematics > School of Civil Engineering and the Environment
Depositing User: Mr Solomon Bayoko
Date Deposited: 13 Jan 2014 11:06
Last Modified: 13 Jan 2014 11:06
URI: http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/1997

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