Attached-growth configuration outperforms continuously stirred tank anaerobic membrane bioreactors in alleviating membrane biofouling

Biofouling impedes the performance of anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBR). Two reactors, one as an up-flow attachment-growth AnMBR (UA-AnMBR) configuration, and other, a continuously stirred (CS-AnMBR) were evaluated for differences in fouling rate. TMP increment UA-AnMBR was slower than CS-AnMBR, although both reactors had similar COD removal efficiency (ca. > 96%). Slower rate related to lower total viable cells, thereby microbial activity compared that CS-AnMBR. Acinetobacter Methanobacterium played keystone roles biofilm formation not consistently prevalent on membranes connected UA-AnMBR. This is contrast The findings suggest can alleviate biofouling through changes profile dynamics, would be suitable reactor configuration adopt achieve efficient municipal wastewater treatment.