Comparative studies on the effects of drum filters operated
with different mesh sizes are, however, scarce. Likewise, existing
studies usually do not focus on comparisons using the same
relative feed loading and make-up water balances in the system.
In this sense, we assessed the influence of microscreen
presence and mesh size on RAS water quality. Particle size, concentration,
and distribution, and the resulting water quality were
measured in 12 replicated RAS in triplicate treatment groups
during a 6-week period of constant operating conditions. Potential
backwashing frequency improvements on water quality were
also assessed over a 24-h period, as well as nitrification performance
of biofilters associated with each of the treatment
groups.