Detailed Explanation of the MBR Membrane Treatment Process
1. What is the MBR Membrane Treatment Process?
The MBR membrane treatment process (Membrane Bio-Reactor) is a novel wastewater treatment process that combines biological treatment technology with membrane separation technology. It utilizes hollow fiber membrane modules within the biological reactor to completely separate activated sludge from effluent, achieving efficient solid-liquid separation and organic matter removal.
2. Principles of the MBR Membrane Treatment Process
The MBR membrane process builds upon the traditional activated sludge process by replacing the secondary sedimentation tank with a membrane module to achieve sludge-water separation. The activated sludge concentration within the reactor is maintained at 8,000 to 12,000 mg/L. The effluent is drawn through the membrane pores (0.1 to 0.4 microns) by negative pressure, trapping bacteria and suspended solids. Only purified water passes through the membrane and exits.
The main process includes:
Wastewater enters the MBR tank → organic matter is biodegraded;
The mixed liquor is filtered through the membrane module → sludge-water separation is achieved;
Clean water is discharged → meeting reusable water standards.
3. MBR Membrane Process Flowchart (Brief)
Pretreatment (Screen, Equalization Tank)
Anoxic Tank (Denitrification)
Aerobic Tank + MBR Membrane Tank (Nitrification + Membrane Separation)
Disinfection → Reclaimed Water Reuse or Discharge
4. Main Advantages of the MBR Membrane Treatment Process
Excellent effluent quality: effluent SS is close to zero, and COD, ammonia nitrogen, and other levels are significantly reduced;
Small footprint: No secondary sedimentation tank is required, resulting in a compact tank design;
Strong shock load resistance: Highly adaptable to fluctuations in influent quality and quantity;
Long sludge age: Facilitates the decomposition of difficult-to-degrade organic matter;
High degree of automation: Stable operation, easily accessible for unmanned operation.
5. Typical Applications of MBR Membrane Technology
Municipal Wastewater Advanced Treatment
Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Reuse (Chemical, Food, Pharmaceutical, etc.)
Black and Odor-Inducing Water Treatment and River Water Ecological Restoration
High-Quality Reclaimed Water Reuse System
6. Precautions for MBR Membrane Treatment Technology
Preventing Membrane Fouling: Regular backwashing and chemical cleaning are required to maintain membrane flux.
Controlling Membrane Flux: Avoiding Excessive Operating Pressure to Extend Membrane Life.
Maintaining Efficient Operation: A sound aeration system and sludge discharge strategy are required.
VII. Summary
MBR membrane treatment technology, with its advantages of high effluent quality, compact system, and strong shock resistance, has become a mainstream technology in the field of advanced wastewater treatment and reuse. Reasonable design, scientific operation, and regular maintenance are key to ensuring the stable and efficient operation of MBR systems.