Systematic Review of Fluidized Bed Reactor Applications for Ammonia and Nitrite Removal in High-Strength Wastewaters

• Author(s): Matluck Afolabi ; Ogechi Amanda Onukogu ; Thompson Odion Igunma ; Adeniyi K. Adeleke ; Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu
• Paper ID: 1708811
• Page: 346-368
• Published Date: 31-10-2021
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 5 Issue 4 October-2021

Abstract

This systematic review explores the applications, efficiencies, and operational advancements of fluidized bed reactors (FBRs) in the treatment of high-strength wastewaters, specifically focusing on ammonia and nitrite removal. FBRs have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional biological treatment systems due to their high mass transfer rates, compact design, and superior biomass retention capabilities. High-strength wastewater from industrial sources such as fertilizer manufacturing, landfill leachates, and livestock farms often contains elevated concentrations of ammonia and nitrite, posing significant environmental risks if not effectively treated. The review critically examines various FBR configurations such as aerobic, anaerobic, and anammox-based systems used in nitrogen removal processes. Particular emphasis is placed on reactor hydrodynamics, carrier media selection, biofilm characteristics, and process kinetics influencing nitrification and denitrification pathways. The integration of partial nitrification and denitrification, along with the use of functional microbial consortia like Nitrosomonas, Nitrobacter, and anammox bacteria, is analyzed for process optimization. The impact of operational parameters including hydraulic retention time (HRT), upflow velocity, pH, and temperature on nitrogen removal efficiency is also assessed. Studies comparing FBRs to fixed-bed and suspended growth systems demonstrate that FBRs achieve higher removal efficiencies under shorter residence times, making them suitable for space-constrained facilities. Advanced monitoring tools such as real-time sensors, online nitrogen loading controls, and predictive modeling have further enhanced the applicability and reliability of FBRs in dynamic wastewater environments. Despite their proven efficacy, challenges such as media clogging, shear stress impacts on biofilms, and operational cost concerns remain. The review concludes with recommendations for integrated FBR systems incorporating automation, machine learning-based controls, and hybrid designs for achieving sustainable nitrogen removal. This synthesis of current knowledge underscores the growing potential of FBRs as scalable and efficient treatment solutions for ammonia- and nitrite-rich wastewater streams, aligned with global environmental discharge standards and sustainable development goals.

Keywords

Fluidized Bed Reactor, Ammonia Removal, Nitrite Removal, High-Strength Wastewater, Nitrogen Transformation, Biofilm, Anammox, Wastewater Treatment.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Matluck Afolabi , Ogechi Amanda Onukogu , Thompson Odion Igunma , Adeniyi K. Adeleke , Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Systematic Review of Fluidized Bed Reactor Applications for Ammonia and Nitrite Removal in High-Strength Wastewaters" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 4 2021 Page 346-368

IEEE:
Matluck Afolabi , Ogechi Amanda Onukogu , Thompson Odion Igunma , Adeniyi K. Adeleke , Zamathula Q. Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu "Systematic Review of Fluidized Bed Reactor Applications for Ammonia and Nitrite Removal in High-Strength Wastewaters" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(4)