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A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities
Published on: December 25, 2015
Bio-diatomite dynamic membrane reactor for micro-polluted surface water treatment
Huaqiang Chu1, Dawen Cao, Bingzhi Dong
1School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China. chq123zl@hotmail.com
Water Research
|December 17, 2009
Summary
This study shows a bio-diatomite dynamic membrane reactor (BDDMR) effectively purifies micro-polluted surface water. The BDDMR removes key pollutants, making it a viable option for drinking water production.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Microbiology
Background:
- Micro-polluted surface water poses challenges for safe drinking water production.
- Conventional treatment methods may not fully address complex organic contaminants.
- Bio-diatomite dynamic membrane reactors offer a novel approach to water purification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a bio-diatomite dynamic membrane reactor (BDDMR) for treating micro-polluted surface water.
- To assess the removal of specific pollutants including COD(Mn), DOC, UV(254), NH(3)-N, and trihalomethanes' formation potential (THMFP).
- To understand the mechanisms behind pollutant removal in the BDDMR system.
Main Methods:
- Lab-scale continuous-flow experiments were conducted using a BDDMR.
- High concentrations of mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) and mixed liquor volatile suspended solids (MLVSS) were maintained.
- Pollutant removal was evaluated through various water quality analyses.
- Molecular weight distribution of dissolved organic matter was analyzed using gel permeation chromatography (GPC).
Main Results:
- The BDDMR demonstrated significant removal of COD(Mn), DOC, UV(254), NH(3)-N, and THMFP at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 3.5 hours.
- Microbial degradation was identified as the primary mechanism for pollutant removal, surpassing the performance of the dynamic membrane alone.
- Bio-diatomite particles, formed by microorganisms and extracellular polymer substances binding diatomite, were effectively retained by the support mesh.
- The BDDMR successfully removed the hydrophilic fraction of dissolved organic materials.
Conclusions:
- The BDDMR is a feasible technology for producing drinking water from micro-polluted surface water.
- The system's effectiveness relies heavily on microbial activity within the bio-diatomite membrane.
- BDDMR technology shows promise for advanced removal of dissolved organic matter, including hydrophilic fractions.
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