Characterisation of oxygen dynamics within a high-rate algal pond system used to treat abattoir wastewater
Evans, R.A.; Fallowfield, H.J.; Cromar, N.J.
Water Science and Technology a Journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research 48(2): 61-68
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0273-1223 PMID: 14510194 Document Number: 557004
As part of a study in South Australia, Australia, examining the efficacy of high-rate algal pond treatment of high-strength abattoir waste water, the oxygen dynamics of a pilot scale system were characterized. The relationship between photosynthesis and irradiance was investigated using online data collected throughout a year of operation under varying conditions of climate and waste water quality. Changes in climate were reflected in changes in the net rate of photosynthesis in deep ponds, consistent with adaptation of algal populations to changing light intensity, whilst the response of shallow ponds was more varied. The use of online monitoring and the calculation in real time of photosynthetic rates should allow for improved design and management of full scale treatment systems and further the understanding of factors driving biological reactions within these systems.