Membrane bioreactors sludge: From production to disposal

Abstract

This chapter reviews the MBR activated sludge from production to disposal. Starting from sludge characterization, the chapter first presents the features of MBR sludge (morphology and EPS chemical composition), also in terms of differences with the activated sludge from conventional activated sludge plants. Sludge dewaterability is then discussed, focusing on the differences between aerobically and anaerobically digested sludge. An analysis of the costs related to MBR sludge treatment and disposal also is presented in order to provide a framework for a sustainable MBR sludge management