Optimization of Process Factors for The Biodegradation Of DWTP Sludge in Large Scale Using Low Mixing Rates.

This paper investigates the optimization of biodegradation of DWTP sludge by mixed strains of selected Fungi using response surface methodology (RSM). Three numerical factors of aeration rates (vvm), and mixing rate (rpm) with three levels was carried out to evaluate the linear and interaction effects on effective biodegradation of DWTP sludge. The experimental data on chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal (%) were fitted into a quadratic polynomial model using multiple regression analysis with Design Expert software. 3-level factorial design technique under RSM was used to optimize their interactions, which showed that The optimum aeration rate (vvm) and mixing rate (rpm) were observed to be (0 vvm), and (10 pm), respectively to obtain maximum predicted COD response of 98.7% in fungal treated sludge by LSB under natural conditions in pilot scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]