Abstract

Sequencing batch (SBR) and continuous operation modes were applied using different pH control strategies to enhance partial nitrification in a biofilm rotating disk reactor. The pH control strategies were supervisory control in the range of 7.5-8.6 and fixed pH at 7.5 and 8.5, at dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in the range of 0.6-5.0 mg O 2/L. Supervisory pH control enabled operation at a free ammonia concentration inhibitory to the nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) and an optimum for the ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB). The results indicate that both operation modes were simultaneously controlled by oxygen transport and micro-kinetics (influenced by pH and NH 3). The SBR mode with supervisory pH control presented more stable partial nitrification-nitrite accumulation >80% for 249 days than continuous operation. Molecular analyses showed that the SBR operation with supervisory pH control at low DO concentrations contributed to the enrichment of the AOB (>95%) over the NOB (<5%) populations. Therefore, it can be stated that a suitable pH control strategy can act as an enhancement factor of partial nitrification even under oxygen-transport-limiting conditions. © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.