Abstract
A new model for the design of the biological pre-denitrification reactor is illustrated in this manuscript. The model is based on the calculation of the Specific Denitrification Rate (SDNR) as a function of the main factors that influence the kinetics of denitrification, such as temperature, the F:M (Food to Microorganisms ratio) and the residual dissolved oxygen concentration (DO) in the mixed-liquor. In addition, the paper analyzes the relevance of these factors, in the light of the experimental results achieved. In particular, it is shown that residual dissolved oxygen concentrations determines a significant adverse effect, such as to reduce the SDNR of 50% in presence of DO=0.3 mg L-1. For this type of problem, advanced technological solutions are proposed.