What factors will affect the use of MBBR in water treatment and how to solve them

The use of MBBR (moving bed biofilm reactor) in water treatment will be affected by multiple factors. In order to ensure the optimal performance of the MBBR system, it is necessary to understand these factors and take corresponding solutions. The following are some of the main factors and solutions:

1. Carrier filler selection and maintenance

Influencing factors: The material, shape and specific surface area of ​​the carrier filler will affect the growth and mass transfer effect of the biofilm. Wear and clogging of the carrier filler will reduce the treatment efficiency of the reactor.

Solution: Select carrier fillers with large specific surface area and good biocompatibility, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP) materials.

Regularly check and replace worn or clogged fillers to maintain the effectiveness and fluidity of the carrier filler.

2. Dissolved oxygen (DO) level

Influencing factors: Low dissolved oxygen levels will limit the activity of aerobic microorganisms and reduce the degradation efficiency of organic matter.

High dissolved oxygen levels will increase energy consumption.

Solution: Install and maintain an efficient aeration system to ensure that there is enough dissolved oxygen in the reactor.

Monitor DO levels in real time through online monitoring equipment and adjust aeration volume to maintain appropriate dissolved oxygen concentration.

3. Temperature

Influencing factors: Too high or too low temperature will affect the activity of microorganisms and reduce the treatment effect.

Solution: Maintain an appropriate reaction temperature (usually between 20-30°C).

In cold climates, the temperature of the reactor can be maintained by insulation measures or heating devices.

4. Hydraulic retention time (HRT)

Influencing factors: Too short hydraulic retention time will lead to incomplete degradation of organic matter.

Excessive hydraulic retention time will increase the operating cost of the system.

Solution: Rationally design and adjust the hydraulic retention time according to the influent water quality and treatment requirements.

Optimize HRT by adjusting the influent flow rate and reactor volume.

5. Nutrient ratio

Influencing factors: Microorganisms need an appropriate ratio of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus to maintain growth and metabolic activities. An imbalance of nutrients will limit the treatment effect.

Solution: Regularly monitor the nutrient concentration in the influent to ensure the appropriate ratio of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus

Maintain a balanced nutrient ratio by adjusting the influent composition or adding necessary nutrients.

6. pH value

Influencing factors: Too high or too low pH value will inhibit the activity of microorganisms and affect the degradation effect of organic matter.

Solution: Monitor the pH value in real time through online monitoring equipment to ensure that the pH value in the reactor is kept neutral or slightly alkaline (usually between 6.5-8.5).

According to the monitoring results, adjust the inlet pH or add pH regulator in time.

7. Biofilm thickness and shedding

Influencing factors: Too thick biofilm will increase mass transfer resistance and affect the degradation effect of organic matter.

The shedding of biofilm will cause fluctuations in reactor performance.

Solution: Regular backwashing or mechanical cleaning to control the thickness of biofilm and prevent excessive accumulation.

Design appropriate hydraulic shear force to maintain moderate shedding and regeneration of biofilm.

Summary

The effect of MBBR in water treatment can be significantly improved by rationally selecting and maintaining carrier fillers, optimizing dissolved oxygen levels, controlling temperature and hydraulic retention time, maintaining appropriate nutrient ratios and pH values, and managing biofilm thickness and shedding. Combined with advanced monitoring and control technologies, ensure that the system operates in the best condition to achieve efficient and stable water treatment effects.