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Updated: Jun 29, 2026
08:13
A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities
Published on: December 25, 2015
[Biological phosphorus removal in sequencing batch reactor without anaerobic phase]
Dong-Bo Wang1, Xiao-Ming Li, Qi Yang
1College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China. wwyy44339745@yahoo.com.cn
Huan Jing Ke Xue= Huanjing Kexue
|October 3, 2008
Summary
Biological phosphorus removal is achievable in sequencing batch reactors without an anaerobic phase. This study demonstrates effective phosphorus removal by poly-phosphate-accumulating organisms, challenging conventional wastewater treatment theories.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Chemical Engineering
Context:
- Conventional wastewater treatment relies on anaerobic phases for biological phosphorus removal.
- Municipal wastewater contains significant levels of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and phosphorus.
- Sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) are versatile wastewater treatment systems.
Purpose:
- To investigate phosphorus removal efficiency in an SBR without a dedicated anaerobic phase.
- To understand the role of poly-phosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) in phosphorus removal under aerobic conditions.
- To challenge existing theories on biological phosphorus removal mechanisms.
Summary:
- Effective phosphorus removal (>90%) was achieved in an SBR with simulated municipal wastewater, reaching effluent concentrations below 1.0 mg/L.
- Phosphorus removal occurred during aeration without an anaerobic phase, with poly-phosphate (poly-P) storage increasing after an initial decrease.
- Poly-beta-hydroxyalkanoates (PHA) levels remained low, suggesting a novel mechanism for biological phosphorus removal independent of PHA accumulation.
Impact:
- This research offers a new perspective on biological phosphorus removal, potentially simplifying wastewater treatment processes.
- The findings suggest that PAOs can facilitate phosphorus removal via poly-P accumulation without requiring anaerobic conditions or significant PHA production.
- This study opens avenues for optimizing SBR operation for enhanced phosphorus removal and sludge management.
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