Optimization and Comparative Performance Evaluation of Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor Configurations for Municipal Wastewater

The increasing generation of wastewater due to urbanization and industrialization has created a strong demand for efficient and sustainable treatment technologies. The Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) system has emerged as an advanced biological treatment method that combines the benefits of suspended and attached growth processes. This study focuses on the optimization and comparative assessment of wastewater treatment performance across different MBBR configurations, including single-stage, multi-stage, and hybrid systems. Operational parameters such as Hydraulic Retention Time, Organic Loading Rate, Dissolved Oxygen, and carrier filling ratio were analyzed to determine optimal operating conditions. Performance indicators including Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Suspended Solids, and ammonia removal efficiency were evaluated. The results indicate that single-stage systems provide moderate treatment efficiency, while multi-stage systems significantly improve nitrification and overall pollutant removal. Hybrid MBBR systems achieved the highest treatment efficiency but required higher energy input. Optimization analysis revealed that maintaining an HRT of 6–8 hours, a carrier filling ratio of around 50%, and DO levels between 2–4 mg/L resulted in enhanced performance. Among the configurations studied, the multi-stage MBBR system offered the best balance between efficiency, operational stability, and costeffectiveness. The findings confirm that optimized MBBR systems provide a reliable and scalable solution for modern wastewater treatment applications.