Granular biomass structure and population dynamics in Sequencing Batch Biofilter Granular Reactor (SBBGR)

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Wastewater treatment technologies

Background:

• Sequencing Batch Biofilter Granular Reactor (SBBGR) offers advantages like low sludge production and high biomass concentration.
• Understanding microbial and structural dynamics is key to optimizing SBBGR performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate microbial and structural changes during the transition from flocculent to granular sludge in an SBBGR.
• To characterize the biomass composition and structure of mature granular sludge.

Main Methods:

• Combined molecular in situ detection and microscopy staining with traditional measurements (oxygen uptake rate, COD removal efficiency).
• Utilized electron scanning microscopy, phase contrast analysis, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) staining to examine granule structure.

Main Results:

• Observed significant changes in biomass composition during the shift from activated to granular sludge.
• Identified a stable presence of active bacterial populations, predominantly Proteobacteria, within mature granules.
• Demonstrated the structural integrity and microbial activity of SBBGR granules.

Conclusions:

• The transition to granular sludge in SBBGR involves distinct microbial and structural alterations.
• Mature SBBGR granules harbor stable and active bacterial communities, crucial for efficient wastewater treatment.
• SBBGR technology shows promise for effective wastewater treatment with enhanced biomass characteristics.