Open Call: Optimizing Densified Systems for Nutrient Removal, Energy Savings, and Reliable Performance

Deadline: 20-Nov-2025

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is offering funding of up to $300,000 for projects aimed at optimizing Densified Activated Sludge (DAS) systems in wastewater treatment. The initiative seeks to expand DAS applicability to diverse plant sizes and configurations, improve nutrient removal, and provide actionable guidance for utilities.

Overview of the DAS Technology Funding Opportunity

The WRF is inviting universities, research institutions, government agencies, consultants, and for-profit organizations to submit proposals for research on densified activated sludge systems. This initiative aims to refine DAS strategies for wastewater treatment plants, particularly those without anaerobic selectors, to achieve stable nutrient removal and improved operational efficiency across varied configurations.

Objectives of the Project

• Expand the applicability of DAS systems to a wider range of plant sizes and designs

• Optimize key process parameters, including:

  • Food-to-microorganism (F/M) ratios

  • Carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratios

  • Hydraulic retention time (HRT) and solids retention time (SRT)

  • Aeration and mixing schedules

  • Selective wasting strategies

• Investigate factors affecting simultaneous nitrification-denitrification, such as floc size, granule-to-floc ratio, and dissolved oxygen control

• Bridge laboratory research with practical, real-world applications for utilities

Who is Eligible?

• U.S. and international universities and research institutions

• Government agencies and municipal utilities

• Environmental and wastewater consultants

• Other for-profit entities with relevant expertise in wastewater treatment

Project Duration and Funding

• Project timeline: 36 months

• Funding available: Up to $300,000 per project

Research Scope and Methodology

• Conduct literature reviews to summarize current DAS strategies and knowledge gaps

• Perform controlled laboratory and pilot-scale experiments

• Collect and analyze operational data from existing DAS installations

• Evaluate biological selection strategies, including partial vs. full physical selection

• Determine optimal particle size ranges for different treatment objectives

• Examine the effects of increased densification on nitrification and denitrification rates

• Assess potential downstream impacts, seasonal variations, and microbial community dynamics

Key Deliverables

• A practical “recipe book” for densification in wastewater systems

• Actionable guidance for utilities on improving nutrient removal efficiency

• Recommendations for scalable implementation across diverse plant configurations

• Insight into operational performance improvements through optimized DAS strategies

How to Apply

1. Develop Research Proposal: Include objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and alignment with DAS optimization goals.

2. Demonstrate Eligibility: Provide documentation showing institutional or organizational qualifications.

3. Prepare Budget Plan: Include clear funding requirements, justifications, and potential cost-sharing if applicable.

4. Submit Proposal: Follow the WRF submission guidelines and deadlines.

5. Review and Selection: Proposals will be evaluated based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact on wastewater treatment practices.

Tips for a Successful Proposal

• Clearly link research objectives to practical utility applications

• Demonstrate understanding of DAS process parameters and operational challenges

• Highlight potential benefits for nutrient removal and overall system efficiency

• Include interdisciplinary expertise covering microbiology, process engineering, and wastewater operations

• Emphasize scalability and replicability across different plant configurations

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available per project? Up to $300,000.

2. Who can apply for this research funding? Universities, research institutions, government agencies, consultants, and for-profit entities worldwide.

3. How long will the project last? The expected duration is 36 months.

4. Are pilot-scale experiments required? Yes, proposals should include laboratory or pilot-scale experiments as part of the methodology.

5. What outcomes are expected? A practical guide for DAS implementation, process optimization strategies, and improved nutrient removal efficiency.

6. Can international teams apply? Yes, international collaborations are encouraged.

7. Is prior DAS experience necessary? While not mandatory, expertise in wastewater treatment and activated sludge systems will strengthen the proposal.

Conclusion

This WRF initiative offers a unique opportunity to advance practical and scalable solutions for wastewater treatment through Densified Activated Sludge systems. By optimizing process parameters, expanding applicability to diverse plant configurations, and generating actionable guidance for utilities, the project promises to enhance nutrient removal, operational efficiency, and overall system resilience in wastewater management.

For more information, visit Water Research Foundation.