A comprehensive comparison of one-dimensional continuous settling models based on sensitivity and uncertainty analysis

In this study, we provide a comprehensive comparison of four common one-dimensional SST models based on the results of sensitivity and uncertainty analysis. Based on the result of global sensitivity analysis, the hindered settling parameters are identified as important parameters for all model outputs regardless of the model type. For the hindered-compression and Bürger-Diehl models where the compression settling is considered, the high sensitivity indices of the compress settling parameters indicate that the compression settling process is influential on the SST performance under non-ideal process conditions. However, compared with the hindered and compression settling processes, the influence of hydraulic dispersion effect on SST performance is relatively small. The uncertainty analysis shows that the selection of SST models can greatly impact the prediction of uncertainty of SST performance under non-ideal simulation conditions, and different SST models often cannot lead to consistent operation strategy.