ABSTRACT

In this study, a model relating surface areas of waste stabilization ponds (WSPs) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) rate constants were derived. The objective was to develop a model relating these two parameters which will aid in the design of WSPs. Model WSPs of surface areas .0100 , 0.0169 , 0.0256 , 0.0361 , 0.0484 , 0.0625 , 0.0784 , 0.0961 , 0.1156 , 0.1369 , 0.1600  and 0.1849  respectively were constructed, wastewater from septic tank was introduced in them and samples were collected from the ponds after 2, 5, 8, 11, 15, 18 and 20 days. These samples were subjected to BOD test using the Winkler Azide method. Data obtained were calibrated and regressed and the results indicated that the constants ‘ ’ and  were -0.461 and 41.336 respectively, so that the model is given by the expression  , coefficient of correlation after calibration was 0.999 which is an evidence of very good fit. Verification of model was carried out by computing the coefficient of correlation ‘ ’, between measured surface areas of WSPs and predicted surface areas of WSPs. Result gave an - value of 0.9154 which is also a very good fit, so that with the high - value, the model is adequate and acceptable. It is recommended that further research be encouraged to develop more models relating surface areas of WSPs and BOD rate constants to aid in the design of WSPs. Also, government should fund institution of learning to encourage research and development (R&D) in the area of environmental management.