Sistematização do gerenciamento de lodo de uma ETE de médio porte: aplicação de ferramenta computacional

Abstract

Sludge management in wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) is an operational challenge, especially in activated sludge systems, where biomass accumulation can compromise treatment efficiency. This study evaluated the application of a computational tool developed to optimize sludge management in a medium-sized WWTP., which uses an extended aeration activated sludge system. The tool, based on operational data, was used to estimate the production and removal of excess sludge, aiming to maintain system stability and quality of treated effluent. Three periods were analyzed: (i) before the tool was implemented; (ii) after its application, with limited sludge removal at the WWTP; and (iii) after increasing sludge removal capacity. The results showed that the tool led to systematization of data regarding sludge management at the WWTP, absent prior to this study. The tool was effective in predicting sludge generation, but the actual removal was below recommendations, leading to biomass accumulation and variations in treatment efficiency. The developed computational tool proved to be a promising solution for sludge management at the WWTP, with the potential to optimize operational efficiency and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Its application, combined with operational adjustments and training, can transform sludge management into a more efficient and sustainable process, contributing to the continuous improvement of wastewater treatment at the WWTP and other plants with similar characteristics.