MABR as a low-energy compact solution for nutrient removal upgrades – results from a demonstration in the UK
Sunner, N.1, Peeters, J.2, Long, Z.2, Houweling, D.2 and Martin, I.2, 1 Stantec, UK, 2SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions
(free)
A full-year demonstration of the innovative ZeeLung membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) technology was carried out at a sewage treatment works (STW) in the UK. The demonstration system, which was equipped with commercial modules, was designed to simulate the upgrade of a conventional activated sludge (CAS) system with the MABR. The MABR technology demonstrated the potential to increase treatment capacity by more than 20% at an aeration efficiency (AE) greater than 4 kg O2/kWh. The system was operated at suspended growth SRTs lower than SRTmin without compromising nitrification performance due to the seeding effect of the MABR media. In addition, the performance of the MABR media remained stable with the seasonal change in temperature and under operating conditions with a range of DO. Based on the results of the demonstration, it can be concluded that MABR technology is a viable solution for the expansion and upgrading of STWs in the UK. A full-scale demonstration or application is the next step to further prove the benefits of this technology.
Keywords:
Fixed-film, membrane aerated biofilm reactor, MABR, nitrification rate, aeration efficiency, nutrient removal, red worms, process intensification, BNR
