Evaluation of Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) Cycle Design to Observe the Advantages of Selector Phase Biology to Achieve Maximum Nutrient Removal

Abstract

Pilot plant studies of sequential batch reactor (SBR) cycles revealed the role of selector phase biology (SPB) involved in COD removal, nitrification, denitrification and total phosphate removal. The phases namely anoxic, anaerobic and aerobic in single tank reactor design of SBR were showed effective biological nutrient removal (BNR) > 90% on average in 4 h designed cycle time with 12 h of hydraulic retention time (HRT). The phases were 2 h fill which includes 1 h simultaneous fill and aeration, 1 h settle and 1 h decant. This cycle design found effective to create selective environment for microbes to carry biological organic and nutrient removal reactions with improvement in sludge volume index (SVI).