Dynamic bio-kinetic modelling of microalgae/bacteria cultivation and interaction
Résumé
Cultivation of microalgae in wastewater and digestate has received special attention during the last years due to the potential for nutrient, CO2 and/or heat recovery and recycling. However, understanding microalgae-bacteria interactions remains a major concern for process operation and control. This paper aims to develop a new mathematical process model in the IWA activated sludge model (ASM) framework, including microalgae cultivation, heterotrophic and autotrophic bacteria interactions, as well as pH dynamics. The model should allow to develop optimization and control strategies of microalgae processes for nutrient, CO2 and heat recovery. In this paper, the model was verified and calibrated under dynamic conditions. Mass balances were closed for nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon elements, whereas also the overall dynamics were satisfying. Finally, future research efforts were identified.