RUN-TO-RUN CONTROL OF MEMBRANE FILTRATION IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT - AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY 1

Membrane filtration processes are often operated cyclically with alternating filtration and backwashing phases. Typically, fixed values of the controls are employed, leaving much of the economical potential unexplored. In previous publications, a model-based run-to-run process control approach has been introduced, in which the controls are optimized after each filtration cycle. This contribution focuses on the experimental validation of the approach at a pilot-scale membrane bioreactor for wastewater treatment. Modifications to the approach and details on its implementation are discussed. The controller yields very satisfying results with respect to prediction quality, optimization results, and stability.