A critical review of the mechanisms of virus removal by membrane bioreactors–Influencing factors and correlation with operating parameters

作者：Sharmin Zaman, Mark Nelson, Matthew T. Moores, Faisal I. Hai · 发表于：Journal of Environmental Management · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124945 · 被引用次数：8 · 研究领域：Membrane Separation Technologies、Membrane-based Ion Separation Techniques、Advanced Battery Technologies Research

Wastewater-borne virus pose significant risks to both environmental ecosystems and public health. Removal of virus from wastewater requires a rigorous treatment regime. Membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems are at the forefront of contemporary wastewater treatment technologies, offering a robust barrier against viruses. This review outlines the dual functionality of MBR systems, which combine membrane filtration with biological processes to efficiently target virus removal. It highlights the significant role of the biofilm (cake and gel layers) formed on the membrane surface, along with the critical influence of membrane pore size. This review further explores various operational parameters that maximize virus removal in MBRs, particularly highlighting the influence of membrane aging and cleaning. The impact of membrane aging varies as the chemical aging due to harsh cleaning agents tends to reduce efficiency by enlarging pores, whereas natural aging can enhance virus capture due to the development of irreversible fouling. The limited research on the effects of membrane flux, pH in the bioreactor and aeration condition on virus removal has resulted in varying and inconclusive findings. This review systematically investigates the correlation between operational parameters such as turbidity, mixed liquor suspended solids, transmembrane pressure, solids retention time, temperature, and hydraulic retention time and their impact on virus removal efficacy. Turbidity and transmembrane p...