Amid rapid urbanization, the volume of domestic wastewater generated from residential areas, buildings, hospitals, schools, and other facilities is placing significant pressure on existing treatment infrastructure. Wastewater treatment is not merely a technical requirement; it is also a matter of environmental protection, public health, and sustainable development. Among the treatment technologies currently available, biological technology is considered to be efficient, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly.
Overview of Biological Treatment Technology
Biological treatment technology in wastewater treatment uses microorganisms to break down organic compounds, ammonium, nitrogen, and other pollutants in wastewater. This process can take place under aerobic (with oxygen), anoxic, or anaerobic (without oxygen) conditions, depending on the characteristics of the wastewater and the treatment objectives.
Some common biological treatment processes include:
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Aerobic Activated Sludge Process (Activated Sludge)
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Biological Filtration (Biofilter)
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UASB Reactor (Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket)
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MBBR Technology (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor)
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SBR Technology (Sequencing Batch Reactor)
Key Advantages
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Low operating costs: No chemicals required and low energy consumption when optimally designed.
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High treatment efficiency: Especially effective in removing BOD, COD, TSS, and ammonium.
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Environmentally friendly: Does not generate toxic emissions, and the sludge can be reused as compost fertilizer.
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Easy automation: Modern biological treatment systems can be easily integrated with sensors, SCADA, PLC systems, and other automation technologies.
Practical Applications
In Vietnam, many new urban areas and residential communities have implemented small- to medium-scale wastewater treatment plants using biological technologies. For example:
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Ecopark Urban Area (Hung Yen) applies an improved SBR technology.
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Several apartment buildings in Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City have implemented MBBR technology with stable performance.
Challenges and Considerations in Implementation
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Maintaining a stable microbial population is required, avoiding chemicals that can kill microorganisms
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Biological sludge must be treated periodically,preventing clogging and odor generation
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Not suitable for industrial wastewater with high toxicity or abnormal pH levels..
Conclusion
Biological wastewater treatment technology is one of the optimal solutions for urban areas, especially in Vietnam—where water pollution is becoming increasingly serious. With reasonable costs, sustainability, and scalability, this technology deserves priority implementation in environmental infrastructure projects.
