Effective curves of completing simultaneous ammonium and manganese removal in polluted water using a biological aerated filter

• Simultaneous NH4+–N and Mn2+ removal was studied under batch and continuous modes.
• Aeration was supplied fully and intermittently for effective curve detection.
• Significant effective curves were detected on DO, ORP and pH profiles.
• DO, ORP and pH profiles were correlated with the simultaneous removal of NH4+–N and Mn2+.
• Heterotrophic AOB and MnOB responsible for the simultaneous removal of NH4+–N and Mn2+.

This study was conducted to determine an effective completion point of the simultaneous removal of NH4+–N and Mn2+, using a biological aerated filter (BAF). The simultaneous removal was performed and monitored under two operation modes: i.e., batch and continuous. Each mode was operated by supplying continuous aeration for 7.5 h and intermittent aeration for 6 h. The results showed a higher performance of the simultaneous removal of NH4+–N and Mn2+ for the batch with full operation of aeration. The effective curves were detected for dissolved oxygen (DO), oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and pH profiles, correlating with the complete simultaneous removal of NH4+–N and Mn2+. By recognising the curves, the complete simultaneous NH4+–N and Mn2+ removal can be predicted effectively, affecting a reduction in human capital and operating costs.