Organic Concentration and Loading
For COD concentration in the range 2 to 5 g/L, the performance of the reactor depends upon the loading rate and is independent of influent substrate concentration. For COD concentration greater than 5 g/L, it is recommended to dilute the wastewater to about 2 g COD/ L during primary start-up of the reactor. Once, the primary start-up of the reactor is over with granulation of sludge, loading rates can be increased in steps to bring the actual COD concentration of the wastewater. The loading above 1 - 2 kg COD/ m3.d is essential for proper functioning of the reactor.