Micro-Scale Bubbles Make Aeration More Efficient in Secondary Treatment in Fallbrook, California

In 2015, California’s Fallbrook Public Utility District completed a two-year overhaul of its 2.7 mgd wastewater treatment plant. The district wasn’t in the market for any significant upgrades but was recently approached by Moleaer, a manufacturer of nanobubble technology. The company offered its system as a solution to a problem endemic to nearly every wastewater treatment stream: surfactants (soap and detergents) in the influent that inhibit aeration in activated sludge systems. Owni Toma, chief plant operator, embodies the district’s policy of staying on top of new technology that can create more efficient and cost-effective operations. The progressive culture encourages working with local