Euler-Lagrange Computational Fluid Dynamics simulation of a full-scale unconfined anaerobic digester for wastewater sludge treatment



Dapelo, D ORCID: 0000-0002-3442-6857 and Bridgeman, J ORCID: 0000-0001-8348-5004
(2018) Euler-Lagrange Computational Fluid Dynamics simulation of a full-scale unconfined anaerobic digester for wastewater sludge treatment. ADVANCES IN ENGINEERING SOFTWARE, 117. pp. 153-169.

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Abstract

For the first time, an Euler-Lagrange model for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is used to model a full-scale gas-mixed anaerobic digester. The design and operation parameters of a digester from a wastewater treatment works are modelled, and mixing is assessed through a novel, multi-facetted approach consisting of the simultaneous analysis of (i) velocity, shear rate and viscosity flow patterns, (ii) domain characterization following the average shear rate value, and (iii) concentration of a non-diffusive scalar tracer. The influence of sludge's non-Newtonian behaviour on flow patterns and its consequential impact on mixing quality were discussed for the first time. Recommendations to enhance mixing effectiveness are given: (i) a lower gas mixing input power can be used in the digester modelled within this work without a significant change in mixing quality, and (ii) biogas injection should be periodically switched between different nozzle series placed at different distances from the centre.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Wastewater, Sludge, CFD, Euler-Lagrangian, Non-Newtonian fluid, Turbulence, Energy
Divisions: Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 17 May 2023 10:11
Last Modified: 17 May 2023 10:11
DOI: 10.1016/j.advengsoft.2017.08.009
Related URLs:
URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3170417