A guide for modeling the operation of activated sludge treatment plants

Abstract

The International Water Association (IWA) Task Group on Good Modelling Practice (GMP) has analysed current practices and experiences in the use of activated sludge models. The group developed a framework to make modelling more straightforward and that helps structuring the interaction between modellers and the project stakeholders. The GMP protocol is a synthesis of existing procedures and contains five major steps: (i) Project definition, (ii) Data collection and analysis, (iii) Construction and evaluation of the wastewater treatment plant model, (iv) Calibration and validation, and (v) Simulation and result interpretation. The Unified Protocol forms the basis of a Scientific and Technical Report that will be published in late 2012.