Experimental assessment of optimum operation strategy for large industrial wastewater treatment plants - A case study

This paper outlines the merit of experimental evaluation for the design and operation of large industrial wastewater plants. The 20,000 m³ plant, constructed for an organized industrial district, housing mainly a textile industry, was selected as a case study. The experiments involved conventional characterization, COD fractionation with emphasis on inert COD fractions, assessment of major kinetic and stoichiometric coefficients, and tests on chemical settling and biological treatability. Results of an optimum startup and operation program, designed and implemented on the basis of experimental evaluations and providing compliance with effluent standards, are also outlined.