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Project Code [2014-W-DS-16]
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Project title
Optimal design and operation of small-scale wastewater treatment plants: the Irish case
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Dublin City University (DCU)
Lead Applicant
Lorna Fitzsimons
Project Abstract
The focus of this proposed research (year-long, desk study) is small-scale, Irish Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP). One important output will be the development of whole life-cycle models and a decision support toolkit for WWTP stakeholders that ultimately places the environment at the centre of decision making. Building on existing research (2012-W-MS-10), which focuses on benchmarking the resource efficiency of WWTP, the objectives of this study are: 1) Conduct and collate detailed research into the state-of-the-art of sustainable, holistic, low energy, solutions for the wastewater treatment industry, including the specific technologies that address the challenges of indigenous, smaller wastewater treatment plants. 2) Based on the state-of-the-art and current, ongoing research, assess operational efficiency and effectiveness opportunities and solutions for existing plants. 3) Assess the solutions (novel design technologies and novel solutions for existing plants) from the Irish perspective (size and spatial distribution of plants, climate and seasonal fluctuations, legacy under-investment, influent variations etc.). 4) Based on these findings, develop life-cycle models for pilot testing and demonstration. 5) Develop toolkit for model selection, implementation, life-cycle costing and environmental impact. The expected outcomes are: � Whole life-cycle models of small-scale WWTP � Design and performance Toolkit for small-scale WWTP � Final Report including detailed analysis of results submitted to the research funding agency and the stakeholders � Peer reviewed publications and Oral/Poster presentations at conferences � 2 page summary report for the EPA web-site � Planned Collaborations and Networking both nationally and internationally.
Grant Approved
�74,992.00
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Innovative water technologies
Initial Projected Completion Date
31/03/2016