Abstract:
This study focuses on optimizing the kinetic parameters related to soluble microbial products (SMP) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems using an extended Activated Sludge Model (ASM1). The standard ASM1 was enhanced to include additional processes and state variables representing SMP and EPS formation, particularly utilization-associated products (UAP), biomass-associated products (BAP), and EPS fractions. The extended models ASM1-SMP-EPS, were implemented and calibrated using the AQUASIM software.
A two-phase sensitivity and uncertainty analysis was conducted to identify key kinetic and stoichiometric parameters affecting microbial dynamics and substrate transformation. The calibration results demonstrated improved model stability and reduced prediction uncertainty under refined parameter conditions. The extended models offer enhanced accuracy in simulating microbial behavior and effluent quality, with direct implications for reducing membrane fouling and optimizing MBR operations. This research provides a robust modeling framework to support decision-making in advanced wastewater treatment.
