Research Progress in Biofilm-Membrane Bioreactor: A Critical Review

Biofilm-membrane bioreactor (BF-MBR), combining a biofilm and a conventional membrane bioreactor (MBR), can sustain the stable organic pollutant removal rate, decrease membrane fouling, reduce production of excess sludge, and provide a good living environment for denitrification and dephosphorization process. This mini-review summarized R&D progresses in a BF-MBR. Reports published within the last 15 years are reviewed with respect to BF-MBR studies, analyzing the fundamentals and advantages proposed, identifying the mechanism and performance for pollutant degradation and membrane fouling and discussing the reactor configurations and designs. Finally, on the basis of reported results, future research perspectives regarding the development of BF-MBR are proposed.