How MBBR Media Support Both Aerobic and Anaerobic Processes

MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor) media are designed to support both aerobic and anaerobic processes by providing a suitable environment for biofilm growth under different conditions within the reactor. Here’s how they support both types of biological processes:
Supporting Aerobic Processes
1.Aeration and Oxygen Supply: Aeration keeps MBBR media in motion and supplies oxygen, which is essential for aerobic microorganisms. The constant movement ensures efficient oxygen distribution and substrate availability, promoting the breakdown of organic pollutants.
2.Surface Area for Biofilm Growth: The large surface area of the media supports a dense biomass of aerobic microorganisms, which is necessary for effective organic matter degradation, nitrification, and other oxygen-dependent processes.
Supporting Anaerobic Processes
1.Anoxic and Anaerobic Zones: MBBR systems can be designed with areas of minimal or no aeration, creating anoxic or anaerobic conditions. In these zones, anaerobic microorganisms perform processes like denitrification and biological phosphorus removal.
2.Layered Biofilm Structure: The biofilm on MBBR media forms layers, with aerobic microorganisms at the interface with water, where oxygen is available, and anaerobic microorganisms deeper within, where oxygen is absent. This stratification enables simultaneous aerobic and anaerobic processes.
3.Flexible Operational Conditions: The system’s aeration and mixing can be adjusted to favor aerobic or anaerobic processes, allowing the MBBR media to support a wide variety of biological activities in one reactor or multiple reactors.
By supporting both aerobic and anaerobic processes, MBBR media enhance the flexibility and efficiency of wastewater treatment, making it possible to meet stringent treatment objectives and achieve high-quality effluent standards.