ABSTRACT Several mathematical models have been developed to simulate organic micropollutant (OMP) removal within the activated sludge process (ASP). Models were last evaluated in 2013, and future modelling requirements were identified. Sorption is one of the dominant removal mechanisms within ASP, albeit less understood than biodegradation, and can be influenced by OMP physicochemical properties and process operating conditions. In this study, a systematic literature review, followed by a critical optioneering style evaluation, was undertaken. First, appropriate models were identified, and then their framework and application were assessed against criteria encapsulating ideal modelling requirements, with specific consideration to sorption. The outcome was the identification of an optimum model. Since the last reviews, there has been limited refinement in model frameworks, and models did not accommodate for all requirements nor simulate sorption with complexity. This includes models used by regulators today. Improvements to framework and application are needed if simulations are to become sufficiently reliable for design and future regulation. The findings of this study have worldwide importance, as the ASP is the most common wastewater treatment process, globally.
Monkhouse et al. (Sun,) studied this question.