The membrane biofilm reactor (MBFR) for wastewater treatment: Applications, design considerations, and technology outlook

Kelly J. Martin, Joshua P. Boltz, Robert Nerenberg

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

The membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) is an emerging technology for water and wastewater treatment based on gas-supplying membranes. Unlike conventional filtration membranes, MBfRs do not separate solids from liquids. Rather, a gaseous substrate is transferred across the membrane, while a biofilm, naturally formed on the outer membrane surface, catalyzes desired reactions. MBfRs can be supplied with air or oxygen to remove carbon and nitrogen from wastewater. They can also use hydrogen for safe and cost effective autotrophic denitrification and the treatment of other oxidized contaminants such as perchlorate and bromate. Major benefits of MBfRs include low energy consumption, high gas utilization efficiencies, small footprints, and great operational versatility. The MBfR has been the subject of extensive research over the past 15 years, and the first commercial MBfR application was released in 2011. This paper will provide a comprehensive review of the MBfR, including the most current research and future needs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationWEFTEC 2012 - 85th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference
PublisherWater Environment Federation
Pages4032-4044
Number of pages13
ISBN (Electronic)9781510870437
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event85th Annual Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference, WEFTEC 2012 - New Orleans, United States
Duration: Sep 29 2012Oct 3 2012

Publication series

NameWEFTEC 2012 - 85th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference
Volume7

Conference

Conference85th Annual Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference, WEFTEC 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNew Orleans
Period9/29/1210/3/12

Keywords

  • Biofilm
  • Hydrogen
  • MABR
  • MBfR
  • Membrane biofilm reactor

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ecological Modeling
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Pollution
  • Waste Management and Disposal
  • Water Science and Technology

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