Perspectives on anaerobic membrane bioreactor treatment of domestic wastewater: A critical review

Interest in increasing the sustainability of water management is leading to a reevaluation of domestic wastewater (DWW) treatment practices. A central goal is to reduce energy demands and environmental impacts while recovering resources. Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBRs) have the ability to produce a similar quality effluent to aerobic treatment, while generating useful energy and producing substantially less residuals. This review focuses on operational considerations that require further research to allow implementation of AnMBR DWW treatment. Specific topics include membrane fouling, the lower limits of hydraulic retention time and temperature allowing for adequate treatment, complications with methane recovery, and nutrient removal options. Based on the current literature, future research efforts should focus on increasing the likelihood of net energy recovery through advancements in fouling control and development of efficient methods for dissolved methane recovery. Furthermore, assessing the sustainability of AnMBR treatment requires establishment of a quantitative environmental and economic evaluation framework.

Highlight
► Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBRs) have been evaluated for domestic wastewater (DWW) treatment.
► Adequate DWW treatment in AnMBRs is achievable at low temperatures for long SRTs.
► Membrane fouling energy demands need to be reduced.
► Efficient permeate dissolved methane handling methods must be established.
► A quantitative environmental and economic evaluation framework is needed for AnMBRs.