The Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) is an innovative wastewater treatment solution that combines the principles of biofilm technology with suspended growth systems. By using free-moving plastic carriers housed in a treatment tank, MBBR maximizes biological activity for the efficient removal of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This technology is ideal for both municipal and industrial applications, offering high efficiency in a compact design.
In an MBBR system, specially designed plastic media carriers provide a large surface area for the growth of biofilm—communities of microorganisms that break down pollutants in wastewater. These carriers float freely within the reactor, kept in constant motion by either aeration (for aerobic treatment) or mechanical mixing (for anoxic/anaerobic treatment). As wastewater flows through the reactor, the microorganisms on the biofilm degrade organic matter and remove nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
Nitrification: Ammonia in the wastewater is converted to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria in the aerobic biofilm layers.
Phosphorus Removal: Phosphorus is either biologically stored in biofilm or chemically precipitated.
The system requires minimal maintenance and is highly adaptable to various treatment requirements, making it suitable for facilities of all sizes.
Key Features
High Efficiency: Achieves superior treatment performance for organic and nutrient removal.
Compact Footprint: Requires less space than conventional treatment systems, thanks to high biomass concentration on the carriers.
Low Sludge Production: Produces significantly less waste sludge, reducing operational and disposal costs.
Energy Efficient: Operates with low energy consumption, particularly in aeration and mixing processes.
Simple Operation: Does not require sludge recycling, making it easier to manage and maintain.
Treatment of Municipal and Industrial Wastewater
Municipal Wastewater: MBBR is widely used in municipal wastewater plants to handle high organic loads and comply with strict discharge regulations.
Industrial Wastewater: Ideal for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and paper production, where wastewater contains high concentrations of organic and chemical pollutants.
Retrofits and Upgrades: MBBR can be easily added to existing wastewater treatment plants to increase capacity or improve performance without extensive modifications.