The Estimation of Nitrate Breakthrough Curve Using Analytical and Numerical Solutions: A Comparison

Nitrate removal from water by a selective resin was modeled in both batch and column experiments. The batch kinetic experimental data were well described by pseudo second order reaction rate expression. The mass action isotherm was used to model the equilibrium batch data and described them well. The continuous data were simulated by both the numerical and the analytical models (Thomas model). The Thomas model constant was estimated by using both batch and column tests and the results were compared. The breakthrough curves predicted numerically by using the batch result were in very good agreement with the column breakthrough curves. In the case of analytically prediction, the breakthrough points were overestimated and the slopes of the breakthrough curve were less estimated when batch results were used in calculations.