A Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) combines microfiltration or ultrafiltration membranes with a suspended growth bioreactor for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment. The bioreactor supports a biologically active environment where bacteria and protozoa consume substances in the wastewater, and can be aerobic, anoxic, or anaerobic. Membranes in the MBR process serve as solid-liquid separation devices, replacing clarifiers in conventional activated sludge systems. Ultrafiltration membranes are preferred for their superior separation and lower fouling. The main membrane geometries used are hollow fibre, flat sheet, and tubular, while spiral-wound configurations are unsuitable due to their sensitivity to suspended solids.
MBR technology is widely used for treating various wastewater streams, including municipal, industrial, and landfill leachate. Initially developed for municipal wastewater treatment, MBR systems are ideal for water reuse and recycling in limited spaces due to their compact size and efficient operation. In industrial applications, MBRs handle high organic loads and chemicals, facilitating the biodegradation of difficult substances by retaining biomass and enhancing bacterial and protozoa diversity. For landfill leachate, MBRs, combined with additional treatments like nanofiltration and reverse osmosis, effectively remove high concentrations of organic and inorganic compounds, including heavy metals.
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