Comprehensive Analysis of Aerobic and Anaerobic Biological Treatments in Industrial Wastewater: Mechanisms, Advantages, and Critical Limitations

Lim Mei Zhen; Yeek Chia Ho; Yuan-Liang Tai

Authors

Lim Mei Zhen Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Malaysia Author
Yeek Chia Ho Centre for Urban Resource Sustainability, Institute of Smart and Sustainable Living, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Malaysia Author
Yuan-Liang Tai aterial and Chemical Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu City, Taiwan Author

Keywords:

aerobic, aerobic granular sludge, anaerobic, biological treatment, conventional activated sludge, industrial wastewater

Abstract

Biological treatments, including aerobic and anaerobic processes, are extensively applied in industrial wastewater management for effective pollutant removal and resource recovery. Aerobic systems offer high effluent quality but are energy-intensive, while anaerobic systems are more efficient for high-strength wastewater, enabling energy generation despite operational challenges such as long start-up periods, sensitivity to toxicants, pH instability, and odour issues. Hybrid systems offer a promising solution by integrating the strengths of both methods. Our review aims to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive analysis of both approaches, specifically within the context of industrial wastewater management.