Research Interests

Research is in the area of process control for biological nutrient removal systems, removal of nitrates from groundwater and aerobic denitrification. Specific interests are:
-Biological nutrient (nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)) removal from wastewaters has received increasing attention in the last few decades. Research has been undertaken in the general area of optimization of these types of plants and a better understanding of the biological mechanisms involved. Examples of recent research topics/areas: Automated control of sequencing batch reactor BNR plants, modelling of Oxidation-Reduction Potential behaviour in BNR Plants, aerobic denitrification in wastewater treatment systems. Removal of nitrates from groundwater, use of rock filters for nutrient removal in oxidation ponds and wetlands for grey water treatment.
-Volatile Fatty Acids (VFAs) are used in BNR plants as efficient sources of carbon for nitrate and phosphorus removal. Recent research has focussed on the environmental and operational parameters important for maximizing the production of VFAs from sludges. In addition, research on the use of VFAs in the denitrification process and the use of VFAs as a co-substrate in the biodegradation of pesticides is being conducted.