Introduction
When selecting MBBR media, size is an important factor to consider. Different media sizes affect biofilm growth and hydraulic conditions, making the right choice crucial for the efficient operation of your system. This article will share how to choose the MBBR media size that best suits your system.

Understanding MBBR Media and Its Function
In a Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR), the media serves as a surface for microorganisms to attach and form biofilms. These biofilms play a crucial role in breaking down organic pollutants, helping the system achieve efficient wastewater treatment.
The size, shape, and density of the media directly affect biofilm growth, oxygen transfer, and water flow dynamics. Generally, smaller media offers a larger surface area, promoting microbial attachment and faster pollutant degradation, while larger media is more resistant to shear forces, reduces the risk of clogging, and helps maintain hydraulic stability in the system.
Common MBBR Media Sizes
Using Aquasust MBBR media as an example, common sizes include:

AS-MBBR05 – 11 × 7 mm
With a surface area of up to 1000 m²/m³, it provides ample space for microbial attachment, enabling the colonization of more microorganisms.

AS-MBBR37 – 25 × 12 mm
Offers a medium surface area (>800 m²/m³), suitable for high-load wastewater treatment, effectively improving ammonia nitrogen and organic matter removal.

AS-MBBR78 – 25 × 4 mm
Features an even larger biofilm surface area (>1600 m²/m³), ideal for high-strength wastewater treatment, supporting more microbial attachment and achieving superior treatment performance.
How to Choose the Right MBBR Media Size for Your System
Selecting the right MBBR media size depends on the actual operating conditions of your system and your treatment goals. Several factors are particularly important:
System Flow and Volume
High-flow systems are better suited for larger or mixed-size media to reduce the risk of clogging and ensure uniform water circulation.
01
Wastewater Load
For wastewater with high levels of organic matter or ammonia nitrogen, smaller media particles provide more surface area per unit volume for microbial attachment, improving degradation efficiency.
02
Reactor Volume and Design
The media must be able to float and circulate properly within the reactor, so its size should be compatible with the reactor's structure.
03
Treatment Objectives
If the goal is high-efficiency pollutant removal, it's important to balance surface area and hydraulic performance. Systems may use small, large, or a combination of media sizes to achieve optimal results.
When selecting media sizes, it is also essential to consult the manufacturer's technical specifications, taking into account factors such as media density, durability, and buoyancy.
04
Conclusion
Choosing the right MBBR media size is essential for achieving efficient wastewater treatment. The appropriate size not only promotes biofilm growth and improves the removal of organic matter and ammonia nitrogen but also ensures hydraulic stability and long-term system reliability. If you still have questions about selecting the right MBBR media size, Aquasust can provide professional solutions-feel free to contact us for more information.











