Comparison of random forest and multiple linear regression to model the mass balance of biosolids from a complex biosolids management area

© 2021 Water Environment Federation.

Bibliographische Detailangaben
Veröffentlicht in:Water environment research : a research publication of the Water Environment Federation. - 1998. - 94(2022), 1 vom: 27. Jan., Seite e1668
1. Verfasser: Pluth, Thaís Bremm (VerfasserIn)
Weitere Verfasser: Brose, Dominic A
Format: Online-Aufsatz
Sprache:English
Veröffentlicht: 2022
Zugriff auf das übergeordnete Werk:Water environment research : a research publication of the Water Environment Federation
Schlagworte:Journal Article biosolids machine learning multiple linear regression planning random forest Biosolids Soil
Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:© 2021 Water Environment Federation.
The use of biosolids as a soil amendment provides an important alternative to disposal and can improve soil health; however, distribution for water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) in the United States can be challenging due to decreasing cropland, increased precipitation, variable plant operations, and financial constraints. Although statistical modeling is commonly used in the water sector, machine learning is still an emerging tool and can provide insights to optimize operations. Random forest (RF), a machine learning model, and multiple linear regression (MLR) were used in this study to model the mass balance of biosolids from a complex biosolids management area. The RF model outperformed (R2  = 0.89) the MLR model (R2  = 0.49) and showed that rainfall was a major factor impacting distribution. Storage for dried biosolids would help decouple drying operations from wet weather and increase distribution. This study demonstrated how machine learning can assist in decision-making processes for long-term planning at WRRFs. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Random forest predicted the 7-day average mass balance of biosolids from a complex biosolids management area. Decoupling biosolids drying operations from wet weather was identified as the highest operational priority. Machine learning outperformed multiple linear regression and can be an important tool for the water sector
Beschreibung:Date Completed 10.01.2022
Date Revised 10.01.2022
published: Print-Electronic
Citation Status MEDLINE
ISSN:1554-7531
DOI:10.1002/wer.1668