Modeling MBR fouling: A critical review analysis towards establishing a framework for good modeling practices

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology is crucial for wastewater treatment.
• Filtration process modeling in MBRs faces challenges due to diverse approaches and assumptions.
• Existing resistance-in-series (RIS) models lack a unified framework for membrane fouling analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze existing filtration process modeling approaches in MBR technology.
• To establish a unified framework for MBR filtration modeling based on membrane fouling fundamentals.
• To propose guidelines for good modeling practices that balance accuracy and complexity.

Main Methods:

• Critically assessed a curated selection of resistance-in-series (RIS) filtration models from literature.
• Analyzed fouling classifications, process dynamics, and underlying processes used in MBR modeling.
• Examined the interplay between model processes, resistances, and fouling types.

Main Results:

• Identified a lack of homogeneity in current RIS-based filtration modeling practices.
• Proposed a framework considering seven model processes, six resistances, and three fouling subgroups (with four or five categories each).
• Detailed examination of model processes and their relation to resistances and fouling types.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a basis for a unified framework for MBR filtration modeling.
• Proposed guidelines facilitate the comparison, implementation, and development of MBR filtration models.
• Enhanced understanding and standardization of MBR filtration modeling practices are achieved.