Question 13 from UPSC CSE 2024 - Current Affairs (Environm ent)

Question

Membrane Bioreactors are often discussed in the context of:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. Wastewater treatment technologies

Strategy: The strategy focuses on identifying 'Membrane Bioreactor' as the key term.

*   Recognize that the combination of 'bioreactor' and 'membrane' indicates a process for biological treatment with filtration.
*   Connect this directly to wastewater treatment technologies involving membrane filtration and biological sludge processes.
*   Eliminate unrelated fields such as reproduction, drug delivery, or vaccine production, as they do not involve large-scale bio-filtration systems.

Key Info: ## Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Overview

A Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) integrates a suspended growth biological reactor, typically employing the conventional activated sludge process, with a microfiltration or ultrafiltration membrane system. MBRs are primarily used in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants to achieve high-level removal of organic and suspended solids.

### Key Features

*   The membrane modules physically separate suspended solids and microorganisms from treated water. This often produces effluent of much higher quality than conventional systems, suitable in some cases even for reuse.
*   Membrane pore sizes are typically below 0.1 micrometers, efficiently removing bacteria and many viruses.
*   MBRs allow higher biomass concentrations, reducing reactor volume and producing less sludge. They are commonly used where wastewater discharge standards are especially stringent or for water recycling.

MBRs are not used in reproductive technologies, drug delivery, or vaccine production. These domains are associated with cell culture bioreactors, liposomal/nano delivery systems, or fermenters, respectively. In India and worldwide, adoption of MBR technology is increasing, especially in urban wastewater management for sustainable water reuse.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Assisted reproductive technologies

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Drug delivery nanotechnologies

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Vaccine production technologies