The natural process of biodegradation has been utilized throughout human history for many purposes, from treating sewage to generating certain tasty beverages, and many things in between. There are ubiquitous microorganisms that populate most wastewaters containing dissolved organic contaminants, utilizing them to propagate, and usually producing byproducts such as water salts and gases. In many cases, these byproducts can be recovered and recycled. The crossflow, pressure-driven membrane separation technologies of microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis provide excellent opportunities for recovery of both treated water and certain byproducts in biodegradable wastewater applications. The production of potable water from municipal sewage promises to significantly impact water shortages in the future and there are several successful installations in place, with more on the way. This two-hour course will address non-municipal applications wherein the feedwater characteristics vary considerably from one manufacturing application to another. As a result, testing and system design requirements must be flexible and innovative.

Multiple design examples are discussed.

Learning Objectives – After taking Membrane Separation Technologies for Biological Wastewater Treatment, the learner will understand:

• The chemistry of bioremediation processes
• Membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology
• Design and operation of MBR systems

Outline:

• Introduction
• Biodegradation Basics
• Membrane Technologies
• Testing Requirements
• System Design Factors
• Case Histories

Who Should Attend:

This course is directed at engineering and other technical personnel who want to understand how these technologies can be integrated into a total treatment system to optimize biodegradation to facilitate water and byproduct recovery.