Use of Continuous-Flow Sequencing Batch Biofilm Reactor (CSBBR) for Improving the Treatment Process in the Wastewater Treatment Plants

Abstract

In this research, a pilot plant was constructed and operated using the continuous-flow sequencing batch biofilm reactor (CSBBR) to study its performance towards wastewater treatment. The experimental work was conducted at Zenien WWTP through different 4 stages using two reactors (R1, R2): The first stage (start-up) carried out in 49 days, the second stage (Low organic load) carried out in 21 days, the third stage (Low organic with added media in R2) carried out in 70 days, and the fourth stage (medium organic load with added media in R2) carried out in 84 days, respectively. Thus, the pilot plant has been operated for 224 continuous days. The temperature was between (16.1 - 33 °C), and pH (6.00 - 7.84). The media used during the third & fourth stages is polyethylene HDPE Bio Pac Media with specific surface area of 600 m2/m3 and have been occupied 30% of the reactor volume. The solid retention time (SRT) was adjusted to be 15 days for all stages, flow rate was (10 L/Hr.), and hydraulic retention time (HRT) was (6 hrs.) for all stages. The removal rates have improved after media addition, and the pilot plant has showed stability for the treatment process with load increases.