Comparative Evaluation of QQ Media Materials for MBR Applications: An Environmental Footprint Approach in Urban...

Urban wastewater treatment plants face increasing challenges in mitigating environmental impacts while achieving high treatment efficiency. This study explores the optimization of quorum-quenching (QQ) media materials for scalable membrane bioreactor (MBR) applications, focusing on their potential to reduce operational footprints and enhance sustainability. Six immobilization media were evaluated-sodium alginate (SA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) beads (P), magnetic beads (M), chitosan magnetic beads (CM), polymer-coated beads (PS), and flat media (SAP)-using a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework. Key parameters, including porosity, mechanical strength, quorum-quenching activity, and durability in sludge, were quantitatively weighted according to their operational significance. SA demonstrated the most balanced performance, exhibiting superior durability and cost-effectiveness, whereas SAP showed potential in applications prioritizing high porosity and enhanced QQ activity. The incorporation of QQ media led to a significant reduction in membrane fouling, chemical consumption, and energy consumption in pilot-scale MBR systems. Ecological footprint assessment revealed a 15% reduction in indirect blue water footprints and a 20% decrease in Scope 2 carbon emissions, attributable to reduced operational energy demands. These findings highlight the efficacy of QQ media in improving MBR performance and advancing system-level sustainability. Overall, this study highlights the critical importance of material engineering and ecological footprint integration in the development of next-generation urban wastewater treatment technologies.