Efficient Star-up of Partial Nitrification Process in Sequencing Batch Biofilm Reactor with Domestic Wastewater at Room Temperature

This study focused on star-up of the partial nitrification in sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR) with domestic wastewater at room temperature. No significant nitrate formation was observed during the full period of operation and the nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) was successfully outcompeted. When influent ammonium concentration decreased from 200mg/L to 80mg/L, a stable influent at a ratio of 1.03 NO2-N/NH4-N was produced after 44 continuous cycles (33d) and that indicated partial nitrification achievement. A recommended start-up strategy based on high FA concentration and aeration control was proposed to achieve partial nitrification with low ammonium strength wastewater at room temperature.