Effect of mean cell residence time on transmembrane flux, mixed-liquor characteristics and overall performance of a submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor

Kinetic control of Mean Cell Residence Time (MCRT) was shown to have a significant impact on membrane flux under steady-state conditions. Two laboratory-scale flat-plate submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactors were operated for 245 days on a low-to-intermediate strength substrate with high suspended solids. Transmembrane pressure was maintained at 2.2 kPa throughout four experimental phases, while MCRT in one reactor was progressively reduced. This allowed very accurate measurement of sustainable membrane flux rates at different MCRTs, and hence the degree of membrane fouling. Performance data were gathered on chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency, and a COD mass balance was constructed accounting for carbon converted into new biomass and that lost in the effluent as dissolved methane. Measurements of growth yield at each MCRT were made, with physical characterisation of each mixed liquor based on capillary suction time. The results showed membrane flux and MLSS filterability was highest at short MCRT, although specific methane production (SMP) was lower since a proportion of COD removal was accounted for by higher biomass yield. There was no advantage in operating at an MCRT <25 days. When considering the most suitable MCRT there is thus a trade-off between membrane performance, SMP and waste sludge yield.