Minimal Solids Aeration Activated Sludge

Modifications of the activated sludge process were sought to allow for more rapid and economical treatment of high strength, biologically degradable, organic wastes. Complete mixing activated sludge systems were tested on a laboratory scale to observe their performance under high organic volumetric loadings and short solids retention times. The systems operated effectively under these conditions, with percentages of removal of soluble organic matter from solution approaching those of conventional activated sludge as long as the systems were maintained aerobically. This type of activated sludge operation, however, produced a larger volume of biological solids than conventional activated sludge. Consequently, investigations were made, and data is reported on the feasibility of using either moderate or extended solids aeration complete mixing activated sludge, chemical treatment, or an oxidation pond for treatment of the biological solids wasted from these highly loaded, highly wasted, complete mixing activated sludge systems.