Neural network modelling and prediction of an Anaerobic Filter Membrane Bioreactor

Anaerobic membrane bioreactors have become an environmentally friendly solution for wastewater treatment. The lack of sufficiently accurate mathematical procedures to model their behaviour and the fouling process of the membranes, poses a challenge when trying to optimise their energy consumption and maintenance costs. An accurate model of the fouling process of the membranes is critical to make the most of this technology. This is a perfect scenario in which to introduce neural networks (NN) as an alternative to mathematical modelling. However, the duration of the experiments and the difficulties in measuring some relevant variables, make it hard to collect high quality datasets to train the NN. Our goal is to obtain a good prediction of the fouling status of the membranes to enable an adjustment of operation conditions and maintenance procedures ahead in time. To do so we must obtain high quality datasets to train our neural networks. The combination of static and dynamic networks enables us to leverage the best prediction capabilities of each one. This combination requires a preprocessing of the datasets that separates trends from oscillations. The outputs obtained need to be put together to build up the predicted evolution of fouling. Accurate predictions are then extended from 25 to up to 75 filtration cycles. To maintain and even extend accuracy after sudden changes in operating conditions, retraining the NN every 25 cycles is proposed. AI based real time predictions open a new scope for decision making, and optimisation in the field of anaerobic membrane reactors.