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Fluid hydrodynamics in submerged and sidestream membrane bioreactors
P Le-Clech1, H Alvarez-Vazquez, B Jefferson
1IEWRM, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai Campus, Malaysia.
Summary
Turbulence in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) enhances mass transfer and reduces fouling by increasing critical flux. This study optimizes hydrodynamics and aeration for submerged and sidestream MBR systems.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Membrane processes, including submerged membrane bioreactors (MBRs) and sidestream (SS) systems, rely on turbulence to enhance performance.
- Turbulence, induced by aeration or pumping, increases mass transfer and mitigates membrane fouling, leading to a higher critical flux where permeability is maintained.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a calculation of appropriate hydrodynamics parameters for a sidestream (SS) membrane bioreactor (MBR) configuration.
- To optimize aeration in a submerged MBR system by determining the minimum air velocity for Taylor bubble formation.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of hydrodynamics parameters in a sidestream (SS) membrane bioreactor (MBR).
- Determination of the minimum air velocity required for Taylor bubble formation to optimize aeration in submerged MBRs.
Main Results:
- The study provides a method for calculating hydrodynamics parameters relevant to SS MBR configurations.
- Optimization of submerged MBR aeration was achieved by identifying the critical air velocity for Taylor bubble formation, enhancing turbulence and mass transfer.
Conclusions:
- Understanding and controlling hydrodynamics, particularly turbulence, is crucial for maximizing the efficiency and lifespan of membrane bioreactors (MBRs).
- The findings offer practical insights for optimizing both submerged and sidestream MBR designs to improve wastewater treatment processes.