Full scale sanitary landfill leachate treatment by MBR: Flat sheet vs. hollow fiber membrane

The aim of this study was to find a cost-efficient leachate treatment system by comparing two MBR systems, flat sheet and hollow fiber. Data collected through continuous monitoring and laboratory analysis over the last two years has been evaluated in terms of treatment performance and economic analysis. MBR systems were found to be as effective and economical in terms of color, SS removal, and total treatment efficiency. It has been observed that the flat sheet membranes were clogged up in six weeks, while the hollow fiber membranes took 12-16 weeks to clog. Moreover, the hollow fiber module was less clogged and needed shorter washing times, resulting in lower amounts of chemical consumption. Hollow fiber membrane systems, compared to flat sheet membrane systems, have higher operational availability and lower maintenance costs. For the first time, the advantage of using submerged hollow fiber for the treatment of high-strength landfill leachate has been clearly demonstrated.