Biological wastewater treatment excels at degrading high-concentration organic pollutants—critical for pharmaceutical industries dealing with COD levels of 10,000–80,000 mg/L. It uses specially selected microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) that metabolize harmful organics, unlike physical-chemical methods that only transfer contaminants. For antibiotic wastewater, anaerobic systems like UASB (Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Bed) or EGSB (Expanded Granular Sludge Bed) reactors first break down complex compounds. Then aerobic processes (e.g., SBR, biological contact oxidation) further degrade residues into carbon dioxide, water, and harmless biomass. When paired with post-treatment like MBR (Membrane Bioreactor), COD removal rates exceed 80%, and effluent COD stays below 300 mg/L—meeting strict discharge standards. This ensures pharmaceutical facilities eliminate toxic residues, protecting ecosystems from antibiotic pollution. Click here to know more.
How Does Biological Wastewater Treatment Degrade High-Concentration Organic Pollutants?