ISSN:
1573-2878
Keywords:
Eutrophication
;
wastewater treatment
;
optimal reclamation
;
Pontryagin's principle
;
singular arcs
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Mathematics
Notes:
Abstract Eutrophication, i.e., the abnormal growth of phytoplankton, is considered in this note, which focuses on the optimal treatment of eutrophic water bodies. The issue is addressed by the use of a nonlinear model where phytoplankton and the number of wastewater treatment plants in operation are the state variables. The decision maker is a governmental agency which has to define the time pattern of investment in new plants so as to minimize the present value of environmental and treatment costs. The optimal solution is shown to have the following features. First, the optimal size for the wastewater treatment system is attained in minimum time. Subsequently, investment replaces wornout treatment plants, and phytoplankton adjusts asymptotically to its optimal equilibrium value.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00939926
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