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A Review of Biofouling and its Control in Membrane Separation Bioreactors
Author(s) -
Liao B. Q.,
Bagley D. M.,
Kraemer H. E.,
Leppard G. G.,
Liss S. N.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
water environment research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.356
H-Index - 73
eISSN - 1554-7531
pISSN - 1061-4303
DOI - 10.2175/106143004x151527
Subject(s) - biofouling , membrane , extracellular polymeric substance , backwashing , bioreactor , membrane bioreactor , activated sludge , wastewater , membrane fouling , clogging , membrane technology , sewage treatment , chemical engineering , chemistry , environmental engineering , biofilm , waste management , environmental science , fouling , engineering , bacteria , organic chemistry , biology , history , biochemistry , archaeology , inlet , mechanical engineering , genetics
Membrane separation technology is increasingly becoming an important innovation in biological wastewater treatment. Biofouling of the membrane is a major factor affecting the efficient and economic operation of membrane separation bioreactors (MBRs). This review summarizes the state‐of‐the‐art progress in understanding the mechanisms and factors affecting membrane biofouling and the strategies for biofouling control. Biofouling mechanisms include the adsorption of soluble and suspended extracellular polymers on membrane surfaces and in membrane pores, the clogging of membrane pore structure by fine colloidal particles and cell debris, and the adhesion and deposition of sludge cake on membrane surfaces. Design and operating conditions of membrane modules and materials, hydrodynamic conditions in MBRs, process and environmental conditions of activated sludge systems, and the physicochemical properties of the wastewater are the dominant factors determining membrane biofouling. Current strategies to control biofouling include periodic relaxation, backwashing, chemical cleaning, and possible manipulation of hydrodynamic conditions and sludge properties. Achieving full integration of MBRs in wastewater treatment technology requires further research and development. Fundamental information on the bacteria, colloid, and membrane interaction, developed through multimethod and multiscale approaches, is particularly needed.