Airlift
biofilm reactors are used for treating domestic and industrial waste
water. The biomass is attached on small, in the water phase suspended
carrier particles (diameter 200-300 µm). Due to this attached growth, a
high biomass concentration (30 - 40 kg/m3 ) can be maintained
in the reactor which allows high volumetric loadings. At loadings of about
8 kg COD/m3.day , COD removal and nitrification do occur
simultaneously. Integration of an anoxic compartment in the reactor,
results in denitrification as well. Compact/smooth biofilms will develop
if the specific surface load does not exceed the level of about 10 g COD/m2.day.
Smooth
and compact biofilm
Smooth
and compact biofilm
detachment
of old biofilms
Surface
biofilm colonised by Thiotrix
Surface
biofilm colonised by Thiotrix
Surface
biofilm colonised by Thiotrix
Fluffy
biofilm (high specific surface load applied)