Tool for the evaluation of continuous-time OUR for biological processes optimisation

Biodegradation is a key mechanism for removing organic contaminants in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) through biological processes. This study focuses on respiratory analysis using continuous oxygen uptake rate (OUR) curves to assess biodegradability and biological activity. The method involves continuous monitoring of dissolved oxygen in a respirometer, with advanced signal processing techniques to reconstruct accurate OUR curves. This enables the distinction between exogenous and endogenous respiration phases, providing a deeper understanding of substrate degradation dynamics. Case studies on domestic, industrial, and mixed wastewater highlight the method’s flexibility in evaluating various substrate and biomass interactions. The proposed approach offers enhanced precision compared with traditional regression models, supporting improved WWTP management by delivering detailed insights into oxygen consumption during biodegradation processes. In addition, this method is straightforward to implement, manage, and integrate into the routine operational protocols of a treatment plant. Unlike regression models, which approximate the OUR with mean values across predefined segments, the proposed approach reconstructs the entire signal continuously, improving temporal resolution and automatic identification of respiratory phases. It provides a practical tool for daily monitoring of biomass health, ensuring reliable and efficient plant performance.