Grant: Engage Plus Grants for Colleges

The original research project aimed to modify an advanced water treatment (AWT) system for the removal ofnitrogen, BOD and TSS. In order to meet that objective two AWT systems were examined in parallel, each oneutilizing a different media source. Once the bacterial populations became established both systems performedcomparably well, despite the differences in the denitrification chamber volume and availability of surface areafor bacterial growth. While performance between systems was relatively the same, within each systemreduction of nitrogen and organic matter varied on a daily basis. As a result of this variance additionaldevelopment and performance monitoring of the system is needed in order to refine performance, improve ourunderstanding of the required operational processes and develop consistent treatment. In order to improve thereduction of nitrogen in the existing AWT system all of the technical issues experienced in the first project willfirst be addressed. The objectives of this continued research project are to;1) Redesign the pre-anoxic zone to minimize DO levels and take advantage of higher BOD concentration inraw wastewater, and2) Identify operational conditions (BOD and nitrogen loading, recycle ratio) that could improve systemperformance including evaluating the benefits of adding an external carbon sourceThe results of this applied research will improve Blue Planet's knowledge of their system, enhancing theirproduct and its treatment capabilities. Third party data evaluating this redesigned system will allow BluePlanet to enter their treatment system into the Canadian market. Sales of this system throughout NorthAmerica and globally will have direct economic benefits for Blue Planet which will translate into benefits forCanada through increased economy, company expansion and potential job creation.