Computational fluid dynamics simulation as a tool for optimizing the hydrodynamic performance of membrane bioreactors
Yan Jin1, Cheng-Lin Liu1,2, Xing-Fu Song1,2
1National Engineering Research Center for Integrated Utilization of Salt Lake Resource, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 China liuchenglin@ecust.edu.cn jgyu@ecust.edu.cn.
RSC Advances
|May 9, 2022
Summary
Optimizing membrane bioreactor (MBR) design using computational fluid dynamics and PIV experiments enhances shear forces on membranes. This reduces membrane fouling and improves overall MBR performance.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Membrane fouling in membrane bioreactors (MBRs) is linked to hydrodynamic properties and shear stress.
- Optimizing MBR performance requires understanding these relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize membrane bioreactor (MBR) performance by investigating hydrodynamic properties and shear stresses.
- To identify design parameters that minimize membrane fouling.
Main Methods:
- Combined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models with cold model Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) experiments.
- Investigated effects of membrane module height, aeration tube configuration, and membrane spacing.
Main Results:
- Optimal shear forces occurred at 250 mm from aeration tubes, with 7 aeration tubes, and 40 mm membrane spacing.
- Aeration intensity between 0.02 and 0.47 m³ min⁻¹ increased shear stress by 50-85% compared to the original MBR.
Conclusions:
- Specific design parameters significantly influence shear stress and MBR performance.
- Optimized MBR configurations effectively minimize membrane fouling through enhanced shear forces.
