New Advances in Aerobic Granular Sludge Technology Using Continuous Flow Reactors: Engineering and Microbiological Aspects

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) comprises an aggregation of microbial cells in a tridimensional matrix, which is able to remove carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous as well other pollutants single bioreactor under the same operational conditions. During past decades, feasibility implementing AGS wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) for treating sewage using fundamentally sequential batch reactors (SBRs) has been studied. However, technology SBRs several disadvantages. For instance, it can present certain drawbacks high flow rates; furthermore, quantity retained biomass limited by volume exchange. Therefore, development continuous (CFRs) come be regarded more competitive option. This why numerous investigations have undertaken recent years search different designs CFR systems that would enable effective urban industrial wastewater, keeping stability biomass. despite these efforts, satisfactory results yet achieved. Consequently, remains necessary carry out new technical approaches provide efficient AGS-CFR systems. In particular, imperative develop both retain efficiently treat obviously with low construction, maintenance exploitation cost. this review, we collect most information on technological aimed at establishing systems, making possible their upscaling real plant We discuss advantages disadvantages proposals suggest future trends application aerobic Accordingly, analyze significant biological implications innovative technology.