Process modeling-based performance prediction of a multi-stage passive adsorptive reactor for site-specific mine drainage treatment

초록

This study proposes a multi-stage passive adsorption reactor (MPAR) and an integrated flow-water quality process model for facility-scale performance prediction in mine-drainage treatment. The MPAR uses site-gradient-driven hydraulic head to convey mine drainage through sequential adsorption stages without external energy input. Each stage consists of a downflow-upflow reactor pair that promotes contact between influent water and reactive media. The MATLAB Simulink-based model couples hydraulic and water-quality modules through a one-way coupling scheme. The hydraulic module estimates compartment-wise head, treatment flow, overflow, and retained water volume using Darcy's law, while the water-quality module simulates adsorption-driven concentration changes under a completely stirred tank reactor assumption using kinetic adsorption equations. Model outputs quantify hydraulic capacity, effluent quality compliance, and adsorbent service life. The hydraulic module was verified using theoretical flow calculations and mass-balance checks, and the water-quality module was verified against literature adsorption-kinetics data. The integrated model reproduced physically consistent behavior, including stagewise breakthrough propagation and stable effluent prediction under overflow conditions. The proposed framework supports design evaluation of passive adsorption treatment facilities for mine drainage.

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