Fluid Dynamics Technique in Membrane Bioreactor Systems

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are proven industrial technology to purify domestic and industrial wastewater. However, there are drawbacks among which, the fouling is prominent that reduces the efficiency of final purity of water. The application of air sparging can become an efficient mechanism to reduce the fouling. But mechanism of aeration is an operating issue, and most designs are still at present at a developing stage. There have been many experimental and computational investigations to figure out more effective separation in MBRs. There have been computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies being conducted little over 10 years to simulate hydrodynamics through the pores and surface of the membrane and predict through the fouling layer. Thus, design and optimum outcomes towards reduced fouling of MBRs have been possible through CFD simulations and mathematical modelling. This paper reviews all the CFDs techniques used to analyse the fluid properties to enhance the performance of Membrane reactors.