What is a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) and what are its advantages?

MBR combines activated sludge treatment with membrane filtration, using microfiltration or ultrafiltration membranes to separate treated water from biomass. Configurations include submerged (membranes in aeration tank) and external (side-stream). Advantages: superior effluent quality, small footprint due to high MLSS (8-15 g/L), complete solids removal, pathogen removal, and independent SRT/HRT control. Challenges include membrane fouling requiring cleaning, higher energy consumption, and membrane replacement costs.