The biomass on a normal functioning RBC typically has what appearance?

The biomass on a normal functioning rotating biological contactor (RBC) typically appears grey to brown and has a thickness of approximately 0.05 to 0.1 inches. This coloration is indicative of healthy microbial growth, which is essential for the treatment of wastewater. The slimy nature of the biomass provides a suitable environment for the microorganisms to metabolize organic matter present in the wastewater.

This specific thickness suggests that there is a well-established biofilm, which is crucial for effective nutrient removal and overall treatment performance. Properly functioning biofilms on RBC systems enable efficient oxygen transfer, enhancing the biological oxidation processes while effectively removing contaminants from the wastewater stream.

In contrast, other appearances would indicate issues with the RBC operation or microbial health, such as insufficient growth or adverse environmental conditions. For instance, a green and slimy appearance might suggest excessive algae or issues with light penetration, while black and soily biomass can indicate anaerobic conditions, potentially leading to poor treatment performance. A clear and thin biofilm would imply that there are not enough microorganisms present to effectively treat the wastewater, signaling a malfunction in the system.