Recent developments in moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) for the treatment of phenolic wastewater -A review

Background: Phenol, a toxic and carcinogenic compound found in industrial effluent, poses a severe threat to the environment and aquatic life. Conventional methods such as physio-chemical techniques have limitations in efficiency, cost, and sustainability, leading to the development of advanced hybrid approaches like the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) to treat phenols. Review method: In this study, we aimed at an in-depth review of MBBR for the remediation of phenolic wastewater at an industrial scale. The review uses a methodology that involves a comparative analysis of various conventional methods, including activated sludge process (ASP), sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR), Fluidized Bed Biofilm Rector (FBBR), and trickling filter (TF) with MBBR, to determine their efficacy in phenol degradation. In this context, a thorough bibliometric assay of MBBR is carried out to understand the recent publication trends. The study also examines the impact of different types and shapes of bio-carriers and their filling ratios on phenol biodegradation. Significant finding: The present work demonstrates the feasibility of using an aerobic MBBR along with a Fenton- like system (advanced oxidation processes) to treat phenolic effluent LCCA is discussed for selected treatment methods for assessing the sustainability aspects. In light of recent advancements, future research endeavors should prioritize the refinement and optimization of MBBR systems to strengthen their efficiency and sustain- ability, thus paving the way for a greener and cleaner future.