Hybrid modelling framework for ozonation and biological activated carbon in tertiary wastewater treatment

Despite water being a significant output of water and resource recovery facilities (WRRFs), tertiary wastewater treatment processes are often underrepresented in integrated WRRF models. This study critically reviews the approaches used in comprehensive models for ozone (O₃) and biological activated carbon (BAC) operation units for wastewater tertiary treatment systems. The current models are characterised by limitations in the mechanisms that describe O₃ disinfection and disinfection by-product formation, and BAC adsorption in multi-component solutes. Drawing from the insights from the current O₃, BAC, and WRRF modelling approaches, we propose an integrated O₃-BAC model suitable for simulating dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and micropollutants removal in the O₃-BAC systems. We recommend a hybrid modelling approach in which data-driven models can be integrated to compensate for structural limitations in mechanistic models. The model is developed within the activated sludge model (ASM) framework for flexibility in coupling with other WRRF models and hence facilitates developing system-wide WRRF models for wastewater reclamation and reuse systems.