Some observations on the effects of accumulated benthic sludge on the behaviour of waste stabilisation ponds

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Description/Abstract

The effect of accumulated bottom sludge on water column characteristics was studied in two pilot-scale ponds. Parameters measured were ammonia, nitrate, phosphate, COD, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature and light intensity. The de-sludged pond showed a stronger correlation between DO, light intensity, nutrients and suspended solids with the controlling factor being availability of nitrogen. This was less apparent in the pond with sludge where nutrient levels were higher and more complex mechanisms controlled biomass concentration. Water column characteristics in the two ponds converged rapidly in 7 - 10 weeks, however, clue to accumulation of fresh sludge.