Adaptive vertical Plug-flow transition metal catalyzed Bioelectric membrane reactor for enhancing the efficient treatment of rare earth wastewater

The presence of rare earth elements (REEs) has a certain inhibitory effect on microorganisms, making the biological treatment of REEs wastewater an area of ongoing research and exploration. In this study, a vertical architecture anaerobic process and transition metal catalyzed bioelectromembrane reactor (IVABEMR) were integrated to continuously treat REEs, enhancing the potential for efficient treatment and recovery analysis. The IVABEMR demonstrated exceptional performance in removing La(III), Ce(III), Y(III), Eu(III) and Tb(III), the highest removal efficiency can reach 99.9%, 99.8%, 99.9%, 99.9%, 100%. Removal efficiency was enhanced by an electroactive electrode membrane driven by autogenous bioelectricity. Feature analysis revealed that selfreleased electroflocculated nucleus, recycling electromembrane reduction, and activated sludge had significant impacts on the decontamination outcomes of REEs. Functional microorganisms including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes at phylum level survived at high abundance in the process, establishing an adaptive and stable relationship. This study provides technological optimization for efficient biological treatment, has the advantages of environmental protection and economy, and provides a feasible idea for the treatment of REEs wastewater.