Glossary (M)

Large, polymer-like molecules

Mass of water evaporated per unit surface area of solids per unit time (kg m-2 s-1)

Maturing of solution or suspension, for example a polymer solution prior to its use

Resistance of floc or particle to an imposed mechanical force, normally shear

Biological reactor with membrane separation

Thickener based on membrane separation of sludge solids from the water

Bacteria or processes favouring moderate temperatures (30−39 °C)

The amount of methane gas product generated, expressed either as the mass of methane per unit mass of volatile solids, or as a percentage

Conversion of organic molecules to methane

Pollutants present at low concentrations and resistant to biodegradation

Converted to mineral (i.e. inorganic products) such as carbon dioxide and nitrate

Suspended solids content of the biological tank of the activated sludge process

Statistical method for estimating the number of viable bacteria in a sample

Conductive dryer based on vertically-stacked heated trays

Reactor configuration for incineration based on vertically-stacked circular hearths