Optimization of F/M ratio for stability of aerobic granular process via quantitative sludge discharge

Food to microorganisms (F/M) ratio is one of the most important factors affecting microbial growth and pollutant removal in biological wastewater treatment system. For stability of aerobic granular process, optimal range of F/M ratio and a maneuverable F/M ratio control method via quantitative sludge discharge were investigated in this study. Results showed that stable aerobic granules were achieved with good settleability, high pollutant removal efficiency and microbial diversity when F/M ratio was controlled at 0.4–0.5 gCOD/gSS d. In addition, a maneuverable F/M ratio control method via quantitative sludge discharge was developed to verify the feasibility for optimization of F/M ratio. By this method, aerobic granules cultivated with the F/M ratio of 0.4 ± 0.02 gCOD/gSS d had better pollutant removal performance and stable structure with higher protein-like components in EPS. This study further revealed the importance of F/M ratio in the stability of aerobic granular sludge process.