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Updated: May 31, 2026
08:13
A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities
Published on: December 25, 2015
Moving bed biofilm reactor technology: process applications, design, and performance.
James P McQuarrie1, Joshua P Boltz
1Metro Wastewater Reclamation District, Denver, Colorado, USA.
Summary
Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBRs) offer efficient wastewater treatment in smaller volumes than activated sludge systems. This paper details MBBR design, enhancing its application in various water treatment scenarios.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Water Treatment
Background:
- Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBRs) utilize buoyant plastic carriers for biofilm growth.
- MBBRs are applicable in municipal, industrial, and aquaculture wastewater treatment, as well as potable water denitrification.
- The process can be configured as a 2-phase (anoxic) or 3-phase (aerobic) system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate fragmented information on MBBR system design procedures.
- To provide an overview of state-of-the-art MBBR design and commercially available systems.
- To address the need for comprehensive design guidance in MBBR technology.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing MBBR design principles.
- Analysis of MBBR operational benefits compared to activated sludge systems.
- Compilation of information on components and configurations of commercial MBBR systems.
Main Results:
- MBBRs achieve carbon-oxidation and nitrogen removal comparable to activated sludge systems but in smaller tank volumes.
- Biomass retention is independent of clarifiers, reducing solids loading.
- MBBRs operate continuously without specific biofilm thickness control cycles.
Conclusions:
- MBBR technology presents significant advantages in terms of space, operational efficiency, and biomass retention.
- Standardized design procedures are crucial for wider adoption and optimization of MBBR systems.
- Further documentation and dissemination of design information will facilitate MBBR implementation.
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