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A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities

A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities

Published on: December 25, 2015

Alternative energy efficient membrane bioreactor using reciprocating submerged membrane.

J Ho¹, S Smith¹, H K Roh¹

¹Research & Development, Doosan Hydro Technology, 912 Chad Lane, Tampa, FL 33619, USA

Water Science and Technology : a Journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research

|December 19, 2014

Summary

This study introduces a novel membrane bioreactor (MBR) using membrane reciprocation, significantly reducing energy consumption and effectively controlling fouling under fluctuating flow conditions.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Engineering
Water Treatment Technologies

Background:

Conventional membrane bioreactors (MBRs) often rely on energy-intensive air scouring for fouling control.
Peak and diurnal flow variations pose challenges for MBR system stability and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate a novel membrane bioreactor (MBR) pilot system employing membrane reciprocation instead of air scouring.
To demonstrate the system's efficacy under constant high flux and daily fluctuating flux conditions.

Main Methods:

Operation of a pilot-scale reciprocating MBR system at constant and fluctuating flux rates.
Utilizing repetitive membrane reciprocation (0.43 Hz, ≥44 mm amplitude) for fouling control.
Measuring transmembrane pressure and specific energy consumption.

Main Results:

Stable low transmembrane pressure achieved at 40 LMH flux using membrane reciprocation.
Inertial forces from reciprocation effectively removed foulants from membrane surfaces.
Specific energy consumption was 75% lower (0.072 kWh/m³ vs. 0.29 kWh/m³) compared to conventional air scouring.
The system effectively handled fluctuating fluxes up to 50 LMH.

Conclusions:

Membrane reciprocation is a viable and energy-efficient alternative to air scouring in MBRs.
The reciprocating MBR system demonstrates robust fouling control and adaptability to variable flow conditions.
This technology offers significant energy savings for wastewater treatment.