Comparison MBR, MBBR & Extended Aeration

MBR (Membrane Bioreactor), MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor), and Extended Aeration are all wastewater treatment
processes that use biological

processes to remove pollutants from wastewater. However, they differ in their design and operation, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Here is a comparison of the three processes:
WHEN TO USE EACH PROCESS:
MBR: MBR is a good choice for applications where high-quality effluent is required, such as water reuse or discharge to sensitive environments. It is also a good
choice for applications with limited space, as it has a smaller footprint than other biological treatment processes.
MBBR: MBBR is a good choice for applications where good-quality effluent is required, but not as high as MBR. It is also a good choice for applications with
limited space and budget, as it is less expensive than MBR and has lower maintenance requirements.
Extended aeration: Extended aeration is a good choice for applications where good-quality effluent is required, but not as high as MBR or MBBR. It is also a
good choice for applications with limited space and budget, as it is the least expensive and has the lowest maintenance requirements of the three processes.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between MBR, MBBR, and extended aeration:
 Type of wastewater: MBR and MBBR can handle a wider range of wastewater types than extended aeration, including wastewater with high levels of suspended
solids and organic matter.
 Treatment requirements: If high-quality effluent is required, MBR is the best choice. If good-quality effluent is sufficient, MBBR or extended aeration may be a
better option.
 Space and budget: MBR have the smallest footprint, but it is also the most expensive option. Extended aeration has the largest footprint, but it is also the least
expensive option. MBBR is a good middle ground in terms of both space and budget.
 Maintenance requirements: Extended aeration has the lowest maintenance requirements, followed by MBBR and MBR.
Ultimately, the best way to choose between MBR, MBBR, and extended aeration is to consult with a qualified wastewater treatment professional. They can
assess your specific needs and recommend the best process for your application.
Here is a comparison between MBR, MBBR, and Extended Aeration type of treatments and when to use these processes:
MBR (Membrane Bioreactor)
Combines a membrane process with a suspended growth biological treatment method
1Extremely sensitive, unable to deal with overloading, and has very high energy requirements
2Requires regular professional maintenance and servicing
2Produces less sludge compared to other processes
1Higher operating costs, necessitates membrane cleaning, and may require additional chemicals in the process
1MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor)
Uses free-floating plastic fill media for attached biofilm growth
3Takes up a small amount of space and is efficient for BOD removal
1Requires upstream screening for the removal of grit and grease, but particles smaller than 3mm are allowed to pass
2Capitalizes on the strengths of aeration processes and offers unique benefits for treating wastewater for organic contaminants, accomplishing nitrification and
denitrification with an impressive level of efficiency
1Extended Aeration
Aeration process that uses oxygen to aid in a natural biological process
1Commonly used in municipal wastewater treatment plants
1Requires a large amount of space and longer treatment times compared to MBR and MBBR processes
1Lower energy requirements and operating costs compared to MBR and MBBR processes
1When to use these processes:
MBR: Suitable for applications where space is limited, and high-quality effluent is required, such as small communities, resorts, and remote locations
1MBBR: Ideal for applications where a small footprint is required, and efficient BOD removal is necessary, such as industrial wastewater treatment,
decentralized systems, and upgrading existing plants
1Extended Aeration: Appropriate for applications where low energy consumption and operating costs are a priority, and a larger footprint is available, such as
municipal wastewater treatment plants
Ultrafiltration (UF) is an effective pre-treatment option for Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems, offering several benefits:
Particle and Colloid Removal: UF membranes have pore sizes in the range of 0.001 to 0.1 micron, effectively removing particles, colloids, and high molecular
weight species from the water
2
. This helps to reduce fouling of the RO membranes and improve overall system performance
1
.
Bacteria and Virus Removal: UF can also remove harmful bacteria, most viruses, and parasites such as cryptosporidium and giardia from the water
2
. This is important for ensuring the safety and quality of the treated water.
Higher Design Flux and Total Flow: By acting as a barrier filter and retaining particles over 0.1 micron, UF allows the RO system to operate at a higher design
flux and total flow
2
. This can increase production or produce the same flow with less energy, making the overall process more efficient.
Reduced Membrane Cleaning Requirements: With UF pre-treatment, the RO system has reduced requirements for membrane cleaning, leading to lower chemical
usage and wastewater discharges
1
. This can result in cost savings and a longer membrane life.
Improved Water Quality: UF can help to achieve the recommended inlet water parameters for RO systems, ensuring optimum performance and membrane life
1
. It removes a significant portion of the potential elements responsible for membrane fouling, such as particles, turbidity, bacteria, and large molecular weight
organic matters
3
.
Overall, UF is a reliable and efficient pre-treatment option for RO systems, offering benefits such as improved water quality, increased production, energy
savings, and reduced maintenance requirements. However, it is essential to consider the specific water conditions, desired level of treatment, and system
requirements when choosing the pre-treatment process.

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MBR (Membrane Bioreactor), MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor), and Extended Aeration are all wastewater treatment

processes that use biological

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