Phosphorous Models for Waste Stabilization Ponds

A laboratory investigation was conducted to evaluate the utilization and recycle of phosphorous in waste stabilization ponds (WSP). Two pond systems were operated under three different loading conditions during a period of 22 months. System I consisted of three series‐connected ponds: an anaerobic WSP followed by an intermediate facultative WSP and a polishing WSP. System II was similar, except the anaerobic pond was deleted. Two mathematical models were developed to evaluate the uptake and recycle of phosphorus in these WSP systems. Data generated by the model provided reliable results and proved to be consistent with the observed data.