A simplified parameter extraction technique using batch settling data to estimate suspension material properties in dewatering applications

Abstract

Batch settling tests are considered in order to obtain dewatering material properties of suspensions/sludges towards the low end of the range of solids fractions. Plausible functional forms are considered for fitting batch settling test (height vs. time) data. In particular, power law and exponential decay functions are shown to be reasonable fits to simulated synthetic batch settling data. These forms are subsequently employed to reconstruct functional relationships between a settling flux function and suspension solids fraction. The functional relationships so obtained are found to be faithful representations of the flux function used to generate the simulated settling data, with improved ..