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The feasibility of the membrane bioreactor (MBR) process for water reclamation was studied. Process evaluation was based on the following: literature review of MBRs, worldwide survey of MBRs, and preliminary costs estimates. The literature review and the survey have shown that the MBR process offers several benefits over the conventional activated sludge process, including: smaller space and reactor requirements, better effluent water quality, disinfection, increased volumetric loading, and less sludge production. The MBR process can exist in two different configurations, one with the low-pressure membrane modules replacing the clarifier downstream the bioreactor (in series), and the second with the membranes submerged within the bioreactor. Four major companies are currently marketing MBRs while many other companies are also in the process of developing new MBRs. The MBR process operates in a considerably different range of parameters than the conventional activated sludge process. The preliminary cost evaluation has shown that the MBR process is cost competitive with other conventional wastewater treatment processes.

An integrated membrane system was evaluated for water repurification. Performance evaluation of the membrane system was based on three criteria: flux and fouling, disinfection capability, and rejection of pollutants. Minimal membrane fouling was observed for all of the membranes employed in the study. Significant contaminant rejection was also achieved by the membrane system purifying the reclaimed water to meet and exceed drinking water standards. Wide range of virus rejection was observed for the membranes, which was dependent on the membrane type, manufacturer, and the fouling status. Overall, the results of this study demonstrated that the integrated membrane system is a very effective and reliable process for water repurification.