Aerobic granulation in sequencing batch reactors at different settling times

The present investigation examines the way to enhance aerobic granulation by controlling the microbial communities via applying different settling times. Early granulation of aerobic granules is noticeable at a settling time of 5 min. The functional strains are enriched in granules without challenge of non-flocculating strains. Short settling times at initial stage principally determine the efficiency of subsequent granulation processes.