Effect of temperature variations in anaerobic fluidized membrane bioreactor: membrane fouling and microbial community dynamics assessment

Abstract A single-stage anaerobic fluidized membrane bioreactor (AnFMBR) was applied to investigate the effects of temperature changes on fouling while treating real municipal wastewater. The AnFMBR operated at four phases: 25 °C for 42 days, 20 15 and 10 days. systems achieved a total chemical oxygen demand (TCOD) removal efficiency above 90% all phases. As decreased, accumulation solids possible incomplete hydrolysis led an increase in TCOD volatile fatty acids (VFAs) reactor. However, as reduced °C, VFAs reactor probably indication reactors adaptation. Total filtration resistance gradually increased 1.1 × 11 m −1 from 2.1 09 with decrease °C. This corresponded significant permeability 1.68 0.05 LMH/kpa. protein fraction extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) dominant phases, which ascribed causing deterioration. Microbial richness diversity analysis using next generation Ion torrent sequencing methods revealed that Proteobacteria phylum most whereas Bacteroidetes, are responsible releasing proteinaceous EPS, were low temperatures (15 °C), contributing severe fouling. In conclusion, did not affect treatment but resulted gradual