A mathematical model for the flotation of waste activated sludge

Abstract

A mathematical model that describes a batch flotation process is presented. The model employed a similar method to the hindered settling of flocculated material. This idea is based on our experimental results that the time growth curves of separated liquor zone showed a similar character to the settling curve of flocculated material, when the vertical axis reversed. In this model, it is also assumed that the gas phase and solid phase have the same movement, that is microbubbles and solid sludge particles joined to form aggregated floc. By comparing the numerical prediction with experimental data, the usefulness of the model is confirmed and some examples of flotation simulation are demonstrated.