Biofiltration: Applying MBBR Principles for Sustainable Swimming Pools

Introduction - Biofiltration for Swimming Pools

The Kmobateva system is based on the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) principles, originally developed for biological wastewater treatment. By adopting and refining these principles of biofiltration for swimming pools, Kmobateva enables a balanced and healthy swimming environment - maintaining crystal-clear water without chemical sanitizers, while promoting natural ecological stability.

Importantly, this system functions as part of a comprehensive, integrated water treatment ecosystem, combining multiple subsystems that work together for optimal performance:

• Efficient Hydraulic Flow: Rapid water movement under low pressure, ensuring excellent circulation with minimal energy use.

• UV Sterilization: High-intensity UV treatment eliminates pathogens before water returns to the pool.

• Accelerated Particle Removal: Fast surface water movement enhances debris removal and surface skimming efficiency.

• Smart Control box: Centralized system control that monitors key operational parameters, adjusts system load, and issues real-time alerts.

• Dual Biological Systems:

  • In the main pool body, a self-sustaining biological environment is supported by efficient oxidation and circulation across the water column.

  • In the biological converter (biofilter), a separate bioreactor stabilizes the water chemistry and neutralizes toxins such as ammonia and nitrite, produced by organic decomposition.

MBBR: The Foundation

Bio balls/Moving bed

At its core, MBBR relies on a biofilm community of microorganisms growing on specially engineered plastic carriers with a large surface area. Within the reactor, these carriers are continuously mixed and aerated, ensuring consistent oxygenation and nutrient supply.

There are two main operational configurations:

• Downflow MBBR – water flows downward through the moving media; simple and efficient, often used in overflow pool systems.

  

  
  

• Upflow MBBR – water is pushed upward with aeration from the bottom, promoting strong oxygen contact and fluidized motion.

Integration into the Kmobateva Ecosystem

Kmobateva integrates both Downflow and Upflow methods within its treatment architecture, depending on the hydraulic characteristics of the pool:

• Downflow Systems: Typically used in overflow configurations, where water moves downward through a vertical plastic net packed with bio-balls.

• Upflow Systems: Used in aerated chambers, where air injected from below enhances oxygen exposure and biofilm activity.

This hybrid integration allows flexible design, optimized contact between water and biofilm, and sustainable operation under low energy demand.

Biological Conversion – A Global Perspective

The concept of Biological Conversion lies at the heart of modern biofiltration systems. It represents a shift from purely chemical water treatment toward nature-mimicking biological processes that promote self-purification and long-term balance.

Core Benefits

• No Chemical Dependence: Maintains safe and healthy pool water without chlorine or other sanitizers.

• Energy Efficiency: High-speed flow achieved under low pressure minimizes power consumption.

• Ecological Balance: Supports a natural ecosystem that suppresses algae growth and enhances water clarity.

• Low Maintenance: The biofilter requires servicing only twice a year for optimal performance.

• Smart Control & Monitoring: Enables adaptive operation and early detection of anomalies.

Conclusion

Biofiltration for swimming pools - Integrating MBBR biofiltration within Kmobateva’s natural pool systems represents a major step forward in sustainable water management.

 By combining advanced hydraulic engineering, UV disinfection, and biological stabilization, the system achieves a harmony between technology and nature - offering a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally responsible swimming experience.