The role of EPS concentration in MBR foaming: Analysis of a submerged pilot plant

Abstract

Foaming in Membrane BioReactor (MBR) is a frequently discussed topic. Some authors reported that the phenomenon is due to filamentous organisms, like at Conventional Activated Sludge (CAS) plants. However, in recent years, other authors reported that the Extra-cellular Polymer Substances (EPSs) concentration is an important factor for controlling foam as well. Nevertheless, even if a number of MBR plants are affected by foaming, presently there are no suitable methods to evaluate the phenomenon. To facilitate the study of this controversial phenomenon in an MBR system, certain foam tests proposed in the past for CASPs were investigated. The results of the tests were able to adequately measure quantity, stability and quality of the foam. In particular, the Scum Index increased proportionally with the EPS concentration and mixed liquor viscosity; Foam Power was mainly correlated with the protein concentration of in the EPS; Foam Rating was also correlated with the EPS concentration.