Validation of the ion-exchange membrane bioreactor concept in a plate-and-frame module configuration

► The IEMB was successfully operated in a plate-and-frame configuration. ► Stepwise increase of ethanol avoided permeation into the treated water stream. ► Biocompartment pH should be controlled to assure complete perchlorate removal. ► HCl allowed for pH adjustment and it delivered Cl− to be used as driving counter-ion.