Data-Driven BNR Optimization Using Advanced Sensor Technologies
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM · 1 hr. 30 min. (US/Central)
New Orleans Convention Center
Technology Spotlight
Hall H Booth 7249
Information
Biological nutrient removal (BNR) processes are central to meeting increasingly stringent limits for nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater treatment. Achieving stable and efficient nutrient removal requires precise monitoring and control of dynamic biological systems. This Technology Spotlight presentation highlights how advanced online sensors and analyzers from Xylem Analytics' YSI brand enable data-driven optimization of BNR processes through continuous measurement of key parameters, including ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and orthophosphate.
The session will provide a comparative overview of analytical technologies used in BNR applications, including ion-selective electrodes (ISE), optical UV-based sensors, and wet-chemistry analyzers. Participants will gain insight into the underlying principles of operation for each technology.
A key focus will be the practical application of ammonia sensors for Ammonia-based aeration control (ABAC). ABAC is a significant advancement in wastewater aeration control, offering substantial reductions in blower usage and energy consumption compared to conventional dissolved oxygen-based aeration strategies. Successful implementation of ammonia-based aeration control depends on the use of reliable ammonia sensors and proper sensor placement within the treatment process.
This technical presentation reviews available ammonia sensor technologies on the market, highlighting differences between ion-selective electrode (ISE) ammonia sensors and wet-chemistry ammonia analyzers. The advantages and limitations of each technology are discussed, with emphasis on selecting the most appropriate solution for ammonia-based aeration control applications.
The session also examines best practices for ammonia sensor placement within secondary treatment basins, drawing insights from a case study at Brockton Advanced Water Reclamation Facility (AWRF) in Brockton, Massachusetts. Attendees will gain practical insights into technology selection, optimal sensor placement for effective process control, and the operational and energy-efficiency benefits of ammonia-based aeration control compared to traditional dissolved oxygen control methods.
The session will provide a comparative overview of analytical technologies used in BNR applications, including ion-selective electrodes (ISE), optical UV-based sensors, and wet-chemistry analyzers. Participants will gain insight into the underlying principles of operation for each technology.
A key focus will be the practical application of ammonia sensors for Ammonia-based aeration control (ABAC). ABAC is a significant advancement in wastewater aeration control, offering substantial reductions in blower usage and energy consumption compared to conventional dissolved oxygen-based aeration strategies. Successful implementation of ammonia-based aeration control depends on the use of reliable ammonia sensors and proper sensor placement within the treatment process.
This technical presentation reviews available ammonia sensor technologies on the market, highlighting differences between ion-selective electrode (ISE) ammonia sensors and wet-chemistry ammonia analyzers. The advantages and limitations of each technology are discussed, with emphasis on selecting the most appropriate solution for ammonia-based aeration control applications.
The session also examines best practices for ammonia sensor placement within secondary treatment basins, drawing insights from a case study at Brockton Advanced Water Reclamation Facility (AWRF) in Brockton, Massachusetts. Attendees will gain practical insights into technology selection, optimal sensor placement for effective process control, and the operational and energy-efficiency benefits of ammonia-based aeration control compared to traditional dissolved oxygen control methods.