Validation of computational non-Newtonian fluid model for membrane bioreactor

Membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems are often considered as the wastewater treatment method of the future due to its high effluent quality. One of the main problems with such systems is a relative large energy consumption, which has led to research in this specific area. A powerful tool for optimizing MBR-systems is computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling, giving the ability to describe the flow in the systems. A parameter which is often neglected in such models is the non-Newtonian properties of active sludge, which is of great importance for MBR systems since they operate at sludge concentrations up to a factor 10 compared to conventional activated sludge (CAS) systems, resulting in strongly shear thinning liquids. A CFD-model is validated against measurements conducted in a system with rotating cross flow membranes submerged in non-Newtonian liquids, where tangential velocities are measured with a Laser Doppler Anemometer (LDA). The CFD model is found capable of modelling the correct velocities in a range of setups, making CFD models a powerful tool for optimisation of MBR systems.