E-Learning Proposal for 3D Modeling and Numerical Simulation with FreeFem plus plus for the Study of the Discontinuous Dynamics of Biological and Anaerobic Digesters

This work presents an original 3D code in FreeFem++ to recreate the behavior of anaerobic microorganisms in non-stirred anaerobic reactors with an intermittent feed. The physical and biochemical phenomena have been considered using a mathematical model based on a set of partial differential equations: Stokes, advection-diffusion, and diffusion-reaction. The description of the anaerobic metabolism was carried out by implementing the structured AMD1 model. The Galerkin finite element method has been used to solve the partial differential equations defined in the model. Finally, the methodology and procedures are presented by means of a concrete example. Thanks to the inclusion of this e-learning tool for use in virtual laboratories, it is possible to improve the understanding of engineering students on the functioning of the metabolism that takes place inside non-stirred anaerobic reactors that are fed discontinuously. This proposal reinforces to students, in a transversal way, both environmental sensitivity and awareness of the circular economy focused on the implementation of natural wastewater treatment systems in rural areas.

Automated summary

This study presents an original 3D code in FreeFem++ to replicate the behavior of anaerobic microorganisms in non-stirred anaerobic reactors with intermittent feeding. A mathematical model based on partial differential equations was used to consider the physical and biochemical phenomena. The implementation of the structured AMD1 model described the anaerobic metabolism. The Galerkin finite element method was utilized to solve the defined partial differential equations in the model. The inclusion of this e-learning tool in virtual laboratories enhances engineering students' understanding of the metabolism in non-stirred anaerobic reactors and promotes environmental sensitivity and circular economy awareness.