Chemical Free Cleaning of Membrane Modules

Gallery: 2 Pictures

Challenging the status quo in mmbrane bioreactor technology: Microdyn–Nadir issues a new, chemical free cleaning technology using granulates to clean fouled submerged membranes. (Picture: Microdyn–Nadir)

A new cleaning technology aims to tackle the big challenge of submerged membrane bioreactors: Cleaning without chemical agents.

With a small footprint and good effluent quality, membrane-bio-reactors (MBRs) are considered to be the future of biological wastewater treatment. The cleaning of the membranes, nevertheless, poses some challenges: Experts consider the request for a cleaner, environmentally friendly handling of the membranes the driving force for this technology.

Microdyn–Nadir, a German supplier of membrane technology, issues a new cleaning technology for submerged MBRs: The new Bio–Cel–MCP process for easy integration into MBR units. The manufacturer claims that the use of granulates allows for a chemical free operation and a significant enhancement of flux, making the MCP even suitable for external membrane cleaning of fouled membranes. Since the MCP cleaning process does not require chemical cleaning agents, it can help to reduce the environmental impact and increase efficiency Microdyn–Nadir says.