Alternative MBR configurations: using membranes for gas transfer

This paper discusses the use of membranes for gas transfer in water and wastewater treatment. Typically, membrane bioreactors use microporous membranes to enhance treatment through improved solids separation. In a number of recent research studies, however, gas-permeable membranes have also been used to treat water and wastewater. These membranes have the potential to reduce the energy costs associated with gas transfer; a major operating cost in waste water treatment. As a low energy technology, membrane gas transfer holds promise for application in both developed and developing countries. Although there have been some successes in applying the technology, significant engineering challenges remain to be solved if the technology is to find wide application.

The use of gas-permeable membranes for gas transfer has the potential to reduce the energy costs associated with gas transfer; a major operating cost in waste water treatment. As a low energy technology, membrane gas transfer holds promise for application in both developed and developing countries. Although there have been some successes in applying the technology, significant engineering challenges remain to be solved if the technology is to find wide application.