Advanced Configuration for Efficient Membrane Bioreactors

Abstract

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) for wastewater treatment are being extensively studied and optimized to achieve the following: (a) higher pollutant removal efficiency, (b) better fouling control, (c) lower energy consumption, or (d) higher energy production in MBRs. These efforts have led to the development of a number of alternative advanced configurations of MBR. This chapter presents a review of non-conventional MBR systems, the directions being pursued to develop them further, and a discussion on how these systems can improve the efficiency and other aspects of wastewater treatment. The chapter highlights new advances in MBRs, specifically in Self-Forming Dynamic Membrane Bioreactors (SFDMBRs) and Electro Membrane Bioreactors (eMBRs). This chapter also presents designs and configurations of novel MBR systems developed for energy production, notably Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactors (AnMBR) and MBR coupled with Bioelectrochemical Systems (MBR-BES) that may be used for simultaneous wastewater treatment and energy harvesting. A comparison of the performances of these advanced MBR systems in terms of conventional and emerging contaminant removal, fouling mitigation, and energy production rates is also provided. Another part of the chapter examines the economic feasibility of practical applications of advanced configurations of MBR. Particular attention is given to the specific energy demand of the advanced MBRs. Finally, the chapter discusses the challenges encountered in using non-conventional MBRs and their future prospects.