Fixed biofilm processes are used in the biological treatment of wastewater. Trickling filters are based on these processes.

A pump transports the wastewater from the supply unit to the upper end of the trickling filter. The wastewater drops down on the trickling filter using a rotary distributor. In the trickling filter there is a fixed bed consisting of special carrier material. On this carrier material there is a thin layer of microorganisms (biofilm). While the wastewater trickles through the fixed bed, the microorganisms clean the wastewater by biological processes. The degradation of organic substances preferably takes place in the upper region of the trickling filter. In the lower region on the other hand, the oxidation of ammonium to nitrate (nitrification) is the predominant process. Subsequently, the wastewater flows into a collecting tank. Two pumps deliver a portion of the collected wastewater to the rotary distributor again (recirculation).

In the lower region of the trickling filter there are openings to allow aeration by natural convection. Alternatively, aeration can take place with a compressor.

To produce the biofilm, the trickling filter is first filled with the carrier material, wastewater and activated sludge. The activated sludge continuously discharging from the trickling filter sediments into a secondary clarifier. A pump transports the activated sludge back to the trickling filter. The trickling filter is aerated by a compressor. Over time, microorganisms present in the activated sludge settle on the carrier material, thus producing the biofilm.

The following flow rates are recorded and can be adjusted: wastewater, recirculation, aeration (with compressor). The speed of the rotary distributor can also be adjusted. Sampling points on the trickling filter allow concentration profiles to be recorded.

Activated sludge from a wastewater treatment plant is required for the experiments. To analyse the experiments we recommend analytical equipment for determining the following parameters:
– biochemical or chemical oxygen demand
– ammonium concentration
– nitrate concentration