What is F/M ratio?

What is F/M Ratio? The F/M ratio, also known as the Food-to-Microorganism ratio, is an important parameter used in the design and operation of aeration plants, particularly in wastewater treatment processes such as activated sludge. The F/M ratio represents the ratio of the organic food (measured as Chemical Oxygen Demand or COD) to the microorganisms (biomass) present in the system. Maintaining an appropriate F/M ratio is crucial for the efficient operation of the aeration plant and achieving desired treatment outcomes. The ideal F/M ratio can vary depending on factors such as the type of wastewater being treated, the treatment process employed, and the specific goals of the treatment plant. A low F/M ratio (e.g., less than 0.1) indicates a high concentration of microorganisms relative to the available organic food. This typically leads to more efficient removal of organic pollutants, but it may also result in increased sludge production and the risk of washout of biomass from t...