State-of-the-art of membrane bioreactors: Worldwide research and commercial applications in North America

摘要: Membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology is advancing rapidly around the world both in research and commercial applications. Despite increasing number of studies full-scale applications MBR systems, directions trends academic as well developments require further analysis. This paper aims to critically characterize review worldwide efforts area MBRs focus attention North America. A total 339 papers published peer-reviewed international journals from 1991 2004 a 258 installations America were used database for analysis provided this paper. After surge publications 2002, appears have reached plateau last 3 years using submerged external units. Although much pioneering occurred Japan, France UK, countries such South Korea, China Germany significantly contributed pool 5 years. The primary has been on water filtration with limited growth extractive gas diffusion which still hold un-tapped potential. Fundamental aspects studied predominantly involve issues related fouling, microbial characterization optimizing operational performance. Research presents unique picture higher ratio industrial wastewater treatment side-stream compared other parts world. For application, constitute about 11% installations. Zenon occupies majority market America, whereas Kubota Mitsubishi-Rayon larger Due more stringent regulations reuse strategies, it expected that significant increase plant capacity widening application areas will occur future. Potential include nitrate removal drinking treatment, endocrine disrupting compounds streams, enhancing bio-fuels production via membrane assisted fermentation extraction purification MBRs.