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.