Influence of the characteristics of soluble algal organic matter released from Microcystis aeruginosa on the fouling of a ceramic microfiltration membrane

► AOM fouling potential on ceramic MF membrane increased with increasing Microcystis aeruginosa growth time. ► Biopolymers were the major organic component determining the severity of the AOM fouling. ► Addition of calcium ions reduced the fouling potential of AOM.