Estimating Design Parameters: Wastewater Engineering Practical, Part 1

This practical assignment for MSc Environmental Engineering students focuses on estimating design parameters from activated sludge growth experiments, specifically Part 1: Substrate Utilization. Students learn the fundamentals of microbial growth and substrate utilization in biological wastewater treatment plants. The practical involves measuring organic matter (COD) and nutrient concentrations (ammonia, nitrate, nitrite) and determining total suspended solids (TSS) and volatile suspended solids (VSS) from activated sludge samples. Students work in teams, analyzing samples using HACH LANGE cuvette tests and other laboratory techniques. The data collected is used to determine parameters for designing an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant. Safety protocols are emphasized throughout the experiment, including proper handling of samples and the use of lab safety equipment. The overall goal is to provide students with practical skills in monitoring and analyzing wastewater, which is essential for environmental engineers.