Recent advances in membrane fouling control in wastewater treatment processes

Year 2019, Volume: 3 Issue: 2, 173 - 179, 10.10.2019

Amar Cemanovic , Neslihan Manav Abdullah Kızılet , Özer Çınar

Abstract

Membrane
bioreactors (MBRs) are systems performing biological wastewater treatment with
membranes utilized for solids separation. These systems have a wide range of
applications since they offer some important advantages over conventional
processes (e.g. high solids removal, low sludge production etc.). One of their
main drawbacks, however, is the occurrence of membrane fouling – the occlusion
of membrane pores by the various components found in the mixed liquor. Factors
contributing to this phenomenon are various and stem from all the aspects of
the treatment process, including membrane-, biomass- and wastewater
characteristics as well as operating conditions. Efficient fouling control
requires a thorough insight into reactor operation and the mechanisms leading
to membrane fouling in the first place. While there are some universal
remedies, proper tackling of this problem requires an individual approach
tailored to the system of concern, since best results originate from the
utilization of several methods together. This review outlines novel and
emerging methods having a potential to contribute to sustainable and economical
membrane fouling mitigation in the future.

Keywords

Biological processes, wastewater treatment, membrane bioreactors, membrane fouling

Supporting Institution

Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (Tübitak)

Project Number

2215 Graduate Scholarship Programme

Thanks

Author Amar Ćemanović is supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (Tübitak) through the 2215 Graduate Scholarship Programme.

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