Wastewater treatment with the internal MEMBIOR Original Research Article

An internal aerobic membrane bioreactor was developed with submerged flat membrane plates: the internal MEMBIOR. This system has several advantages compared to a conventional wastewater such as: compactness, reduced sludge production and very high effluent quality. Both laboratory and pilot scale installations are available for respectively feasibility and on-site pilot tests. The data obtained from these pilot tests allow an optimal design and dimensioning of the MEMBIOR technology, resulting in proper investments cost with guarantees and performance. Research on the internal MEMBIOR technology is based upon biological and membrane performance, aeration linked aspects and sludge morphology. A brewery bio-effluent was obtained using an internal MEMBIOR superior to a conventional wastewater treatment plant, absolutely free of suspended solids. A significant shift in sludge morphology over time was observed. Lower oxygen transfer coefficients were found when the sludge concentration increased, giving rise to the need for an additional aeration. Membrane performance was enhanced using an additional module aeration system.