2.2. Microbial theories

 

The theories aggruped in this section explain sludge granulation mainly based on the characteristics of certain microorganisms. In this approach, the physical factors presented above are often also integrated. The observation of granular characteristics, namely granule structure and correspondent microbiology, coupled to the conditions prevailing in the reactor (hydrodynamics, substrate and intermediates concentration profiles along the reactor, etc) are the basis of the theories presented. Surface thermodynamics as the determining factor in granulation is presented in the next section.