WEF Discussion Forums : Operation and Maintenance : MBBR Media

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 03:49:12 GMT

For one of our project, Contractor has provided MBBR media with recycled HDPE material - which is black in color. The Contractor claims that he has established plants using this type of media over the last 10 years and the MBBR plants have been working well. We have come across MBBR media color as white, green, blue and rarely black. We understand media color should not have anything to do on how it operates - but may have issues with regard to operational life and replacement. Has any one come across any operational problems with using MBBR media with recycled HDPE against the virgin white/blue color media. Any information in this regard is highly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Tope.

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:33:05 GMT

There is no problem is using recycled HDPE, recycled media gives the same material integrity as virgin and aside from reducing the project cost it also reduce the environmental footprint of the project.

As your supplier correctly mentioned, there are many MBBR projects done around the world with recycled media with no problems with it.

To summarize, recyceld media will give you the same quality with a greener aproach to your project.

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:03:03 GMT

Dear Tatya,

From a process standpoint, the color of raw media should not affect MBBR performance. The key parameters are specific gravity, specific surface area, and longevity of the media. If the vendor meets and guarantees these three parameters, you should be ok.

Vikram M Pattarkine, PhD

CEO / Principal (Partner)

PEACE USA