Fouling Potential Determination of a UASB Effluent Using Different Assessment Methods

The fouling potential of a pilot-scale UASB effluent was determined using different assessment methods (SDI and MFI tests and a mathematical analysis based on a saturation curve model). The UASB reactor was operated at HRT of 4, 8 and 12 h. Although the three methods employed were adequate as a predictive tool for UF membrane fouling, the saturation curve analysis revealed a clearer relationship between the fouling potential of the UASB effluent and the HRT applied. It was found that operating a UASB reactor under short HRT, such as 4 h, could increase membrane fouling in a post-treatment UF module.