Achieving High Removal Efficiency and Membrane Sustainability in Pulp and Paper Industry MBR System

Abstract

This study investigates the design, configuration, and optimization of a membrane bioreactor (MBR) system for the amelioration of industrial effluent. The study focuses on mitigating membrane fouling and reusing the treated wastewater. The MBR system is designed and configured with different operating parameters, including nano-bubble technology and hydraulic retention time (HRT), to optimize the removal efficiency of pollutants. The effect of HRT on the percentage elimination of pollutants in the wastewater treated by MBR systems is investigated, and the dynamic relationship between the mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) and HRT is studied to optimize the biological treatment process. The relationship between permeate flux and temperature is also investigated to optimize the operational conditions of MBR systems. Trans-membrane pressure monitoring and cleaning techniques are employed to mitigate membrane fouling in MBR systems. It is assessed if it is feasible to reuse the treated wastewater for commercial purposes. According to the data, the MBR system with nano-bubble technology and a 12-hour HRT had the best pollution removal effectiveness (97.5%). It was discovered that the dynamic link between MLSS and HRT was crucial for optimising the biological treatment procedure, and that 25°C was the ideal temperature for MBR operation. The treated wastewater was found to be suitable for reuse in industrial applications, and the trans-membrane pressure monitoring and cleaning approaches were successful in reducing membrane fouling. With the potential to improve both the environment and the economy, the study's findings offer important insights into the design of long-term, sustainable MBR systems for the treatment of industrial wastewater.