Impact of Shock Organic Loading Rates on Fouling and Clogging Frequency of Membrane Bioreactors

Contrary to the traditional view, membrane technologies have offered solutions for reusing water obtained from sources such as seawater and wastewater. A limitation caused by membrane technologies, however, has been the hydraulic throughput of membranes mainly due to the growth of biofilm, resulting in membrane fouling. There has, nonetheless, been some research pointing to the simultaneity of clogging, a vital phenomenon, and fouling. More frequent unanticipated events may occur in the MBR system mainly as a consequence of fouling and clogging, increasing operational costs. There is however a need for further supplementary information in order to gain a better understanding about these two mechanisms, which could grant us a more efficient way for MBR operational management.