Time series analysis of planktonic populations. Non-linear modelling of population dynamics. Population growth equations for complex life cycles. Life table analysis. Age-structured population dynamics. Population viability analysis.
Ecology of aquatic interactions and their applications.
Development of mathematical models for sedimentation processes, primary sludge fermentation, two-stage nitrification, acid-base processes, precipitation processes, sulphurogenesis and filtration. The group has developed global models that incorporate the main physical, chemical and biological processes that take place in a WWTP, both in water and sludge lines. These models are: Biological Nutrient Removal Model No. 1 (BNRM1) and Biological Nutrient Removal Model No. 2 (BNRM2). The latter model is implemented in the DESASS software.
Microbiological study of wastewater treatment systems by applying both basic techniques, such as observation by phase contrast or differential staining, and molecular techniques, including FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridisation) or qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction). Study of biological systems from the point of view of microbial diversity, applying massive NGS (next-generation sequencing) techniques.
Study and optimisation in the laboratory and pilot plant of advanced configurations for the biological removal of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) to prevent their discharge and the eutrophication of rivers, lakes and coasts. Study of phosphorus recovery systems in the form of struvite by crystallisation processes and nitrogen recovery processes by means of membrane contactors.
