Sustainable MBBR media developed after Cranfield University Research

Warden Biomedia has developed a new eco-friendly filter media following a three-year research partnership with Cranfield University.

Biopebble is the next generation of filter media, designed for efficient Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) wastewater treatment. The media is available in 100% recycled plastic and is fully recyclable.

At Cranfield University, Warden Biomedia demonstrated that spherical-shaped media design can reduce the energy input required in the effluent treatment system. The spherical design requires less energy to be agitated in solution, improving wastewater treatment efficiency. The research also showed enhanced nutrient removal rates compared to other media.

With a large, protected surface area of 500m²/m³ and high voidage (81%), the media is optimised for high biofilm attachment and biological treatment performance.

The new shape provides significant benefits for MBBR wastewater treatment, including reduced aeration energy requirements, improved process security and biological commissioning times, higher biomass retention, increased wastewater treatment capacity, reductions in required tank volume, and promotes generation of healthy and thin biofilms with high resistance to shock loads.

The research project was part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme, partially funded by Innovate UK. Biopebble is now available to the wastewater market after successful pilot and full-scale trials. The media is manufactured in the UK, available in both high-quality recycled PP or virgin HDPE, and is fully recyclable at end of process life, helping contribute to a circular economy.

For more information, visit www.wardenbiomedia.com/products/biopebble