A Novel Nearly Plug-Flow Membrane Bioreactor for Enhanced Biological Nutrient Removal

The feasibility of enhanced biological nutrient removal by a new process called nearly plug-flow membrane bioreactor (NPFMBR) is studied. Results of long-term observations showed that average removal degrees of (1) chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) reached 95%, 85%, and 89%, respectively, at the steady operation period. Process success was further corroborated by batch experiments. Data of specific oxygen uptake rates demonstrated the abundance and/or high activities of ammonium oxidation bacteria and nitrite oxidation bacteria in the sludge. Observed specific rates of nitrification, denitrification, phosphorous release/uptake of the sludge were higher than those reported in previous research. Because of the unique flow pattern of sludge and alternant aerobic-anoxic operating conditions in the bioreactor, mass transfer and biotransformation of nutrients were expected to be improved. The NPFMBR could offer a new option for the wider application of MBRs. (C) 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 46-54, 2013