This paper presents the results about the behavior of a sequencing batch hybrid reactor on combined removal of carbonaceous matter, nitrogen and phosphorus from sewage. Operated in 8-hour cycles, the reactor had a nylon net fixed inside. Loads between 0.39 and 1.35 kg COD.m-3.day-1, 42 and 60 gN-NH4-m-3.day-1 and 51 and 70 gP-PO4-m-3.day-1 were tested. The reactor operated as a stable system and showed good depuration conditions. The carbonaceous matter removal was high, with 92 and 80% efficiencies average to BOD5 and COD, respectively. The nutrients removal varied between 59 and 71% for total nitrogen and between 45 and 67% for total phosphorus. In both, sludge in suspension and the biofilm, occurrence of ammonium-oxidizing bacteria and microorganisms responsible for denitrification and biological phosphorus removal was observed.
sewage; denitrification; nitrification; biological phosphorus removal; hybrid sequencing batch reactor