mechanischebiologische

Mechanischebiologische, usually written as mechanisch-biologische in German-speaking contexts, is a term used in waste management and wastewater engineering to describe treatment sequences that combine mechanical and biological processes. It denotes an integrated approach where a mechanical stage is followed by a biological stage to remove solids and degrade organic matter.

In wastewater treatment, the mechanical part handles primary pretreatment: screening to remove large and coarse solids, grit removal, and primary sedimentation. The biological stage then treats the remaining wastewater, typically through activated sludge or biofilm processes that degrade dissolved organic matter and remove nutrients. The process is often complemented by secondary clarification and, if required, disinfection. Mechanisch-biologische Anlagen aim to reduce chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, and nutrient loads before discharge or further treatment.

In solid waste management, the term refers to a combination of mechanical sorting with biological stabilization of the organic fraction. The mechanical portion separates recyclables, metals, plastics, glass, and inert material from mixed municipal waste. The remaining organic fraction is stabilized biologically, through aerobic composting or anaerobic digestion, producing compost or biogas and a stabilized residue for disposal or further use.

Advantages of mechanischebiologische approaches include efficient removal of pollutants, potential energy recovery, and reduced landfill volume. Challenges encompass capital and operating costs, odor and emissions control, and the need for careful residue handling and process optimization. The term is used variably; facilities may label their processes as mechanisch-biologische Abwasserreinigung or mechanisch-biologische Abfallbehandlung depending on the main waste stream treated.