SA-WPCC : Media Optimization for a FGR-SGR bio-P Plant

The Salmon Arm Water Pollution Control Centre (WPCC), a key component of the District’s water and wastewater infrastructure system, incorporates an innovative biological process for removal of phosphorus without the addition of chemicals: the inclusion of a fixed growth reactor (FGR) as a principle component in the process train. It provides cascade aeration of the process mixed liquor, consuming less energy than the method employed for conventional activated sludge aeration basins. This field test study is designed to develop further the innovative aspects of the fixed growth reactor-suspended growth reactor (FGR-SGR) process by developing new knowledge and technology not previously implemented in Canada, as well as a unique application of existing knowledge. It will focus on the identification of an FGR media physical configuration to reduce solids accumulation/sloughing events that are currently experienced at the full-scale plant; explore the use of recycled plastic for media manufacture, allowing the potential application of a new low-cost media type for future installations; and eliminate the solids accumulation and sloughing cycle by identifying the optimum media configuration for the FGR. The successful completion of this field test study is to l greatly aid in promoting additional applications and replications of the FGR-SGR process at existing and future facilities by improving process performance and stability.