Fundamental Studies on Dynamic Membrane Bioreactor-Based Processes for Wastewater Treatment in Cold Regions

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As a low-cost derivative of the membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology, dynamic membrane bioreactors (DMBRs) are attracting strong interest in the recent decades, in which a dynamic membrane (DM) is obtained through forming a cake layer on large-pore supporting mesh that is made of cheap materials, e.g., nylon. Compared with conventional MBRs, DMBRs have advantages, including inexpensive membrane modules, easier operation, lower energy demand, higher flux, more manageable fouling, and reduced chemical cleaning. Thus, DMBRs have been studied for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment. The advantages of the DMBR technology make it promising for wastewater treatment and reuse in remote communities, such as those in First Nations reserves and others without adequate wastewater treatment facilities. However, the fluctuating permeate quality of DMBRs remains challenging when the DMs are fouled after long-term operation, which impedes large-scale application of the technology. In Canada, there is another unfavorable factor for DMBRs: low temperature. To date, impacts of low temperature (e.g., 1 - 15°C) on DMBRs have rarely been studied. Hence, DMBRs' performance and resilience in cold regions are still unknown. Since temperature is one of the most influential factors for microbial activities, it is necessary to explore the potential of DMBRs at low temperature. The research program is to holistically and fundamentally study DMBRs at low temperature. Specifically, I am looking to examine DMBRs' psychrophilic performance and resilience, to identify the determinant operating factors, to optimize the treatment performance, and understand the mechanisms that govern DMBRs (e.g., DM formation and fouling). Long-term-wise, I am looking forward to developing multi-barrier approach-based DMBR systems by integrating other processes in a DMBR system. For example, hybridization of activated sludge and biofilm is a reliable and promising approach at low temperature. Moreover, training highly qualified personnel (HQP) is another cornerstone of my research. By training individuals from various backgrounds/identities (e.g., gender, nationality, and skill-set), I will do my best to create a good mix of personnel in my research program to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion. To the best of my knowledge, this is a pioneer attempt. The research will cast deeper insights into the physical, chemical, and biological processes occurring in DMBRs at low temperature. In addition, it would shed light on biodegradation of emerging pollutants in DMBRs under cold conditions. Overall, I am looking forward to developing sustainable wastewater treatment and reuse strategies for underprivileged communities in cold regions. Through developing sustainable technologies and training HQP, my research program will help guard the environment and public health in remote communities scattered across Canada and other countries.