(375q) Identification of Optimal Filtration Networks for Recreational Water Use

In this paper we present a mathematical model that describes the synthesis of a Filtration Network; and captures the overall process performance of individual filters in a continuous fashion for recreational water use. For the purpose of this study, process performance is defined as the filters ability to remove particles of various size distributions and loadings throughout a 24-hour time period. Here we employ mathematical programming and state-space analysis to explore the parameter search space of our model to identify filtration networks that maximize process performance in a continual fashion based on an overall cost objective. A variety of case studies are used to illustrate the application of our modeling approach to the optimal design of a filtration network consisting of sand and cartridge filters of various sizes and efficiencies. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify qualitative trends implicit in the proposed mathematical model and to determine the effect that these parameters have on the chosen filtration networks and turnover times.