Name
Nanobubble echnology for process intensification: enhancing nutrient removal and operational resilience in wastewater treatment
Authors
Cesar Herrera, Baji Gobburi and Andrea White, MOLEAR,Spain
Duncan Wildgoose, Xylem Water Solutions, UK
Description

Stricter nutrient regulations and increasingly variable influent quality are challenging the stability and performance of biological nutrient removal (BNR) processes. This presentation introduces nanobubble technology as a practical process intensification tool that enhances biological activity and treatment stability within existing infrastructure. Nanobubbles—nanosized, stable bubbles (<200 nm) with high surface charge and neutral buoyancy—exert a catalytic effect on biological processes by improving enzymatic activity, increasing substrate–microbe contact, and strengthening floc structure. Their interfacial properties reduce the inhibitory impact of surfactants, fats/oils/grease, and other compounds that disrupt microbial pathways and solids separation. These effects support more robust nitrification–denitrification performance across activated sludge processes. Full-scale applications have demonstrated 25–40% higher nitrogen removal, 15–40% lower aeration energy, 10–100% reduction or elimination of chemical use, and up to 25% more biogas, enabling utilities to increase capacity and maintain compliance without new tankage. The session will share integration strategies, operating envelopes, and control considerations, supported by performance data from full-scale installations.

Track
Technology Showcase - Maximising the Potential and Resilience of Assets