Membrane Bioreactors: Global Markets

Report Code: MST047B

Publish Date: Jun 2008

Publisher: BCC Publishing

Category: Water-Membrane and Separations

Customize This Report

Explore Our Services

Already a member? Login to access this report free.

Report Highlights

  • The global market for membrane bioreactor technology is expected to increase from $216.6 million in 2005 to an estimated $296 million by the end of 2008. It should reach $488 million in 2013, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5%
  • Most MBRs use aerobic microbial processes, which are expected to be worth $291 million in 2008 and $483 million in 2013, a CAGR of 10.7%
  • Municipal and domestic wastewater treatment generated $96.6 million in 2005. This should increase to $142 million in 2008 and $249 million in 2013, for a CAGR of 11.9%.

INTRODUCTION

STUDY GOAL AND OBJECTIVES
 
This comprehensive market opportunity report evaluates the global market membrane bioreactors (MBRs) used for wastewater treatment. Existing and potential markets for MBRs on the global stage are identified. The goals are to provide meaningful information, unbiased analysis, and an assessment of the roles that MBR systems can play now and in the future of wastewater treatment technology. Twenty-eight countries’ water needs are evaluated in four global regions.
 
 REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY
 
The need for pure water is a problem of global proportions. In the earth’s hydrologic cycle, fresh water supplies are fixed and constant, while global water demand is growing. With each passing year, the quality of the planet’s water measurably deteriorates, presenting challenges for the major users: the municipal, industrial, and environmental sectors. Water treatment has become an area of global concern as individuals, communities, industries, countries, and their national institutions strive for ways to keep this essential resource available and suitable for use. MBRs have emerged over the past 10 years as an effective solution to transforming various wastewaters into high quality effluent suitable for discharge to the environment and increasingly into a reusable product. 
  
INTENDED READERSHIP
 
This report is designed to be as comprehensive as possible and to be useable by a broad audience of business, technical, and regulatory practitioners on a global scale. The document is an information source on the industry, a reference manual on an advanced technology and its system components, and a resource that provides information to decision makers who need to stay abreast of the state of the art.
 
This report presents analysis and forward-thinking knowledge that will be of advantage to manufacturers, suppliers, and to local, state and the federal government as well as foreign governments. Engineers, utilities, and corporate planners will benefit in accessing the global demand for membrane bioreactors.
  
SCOPE OF REPORT
 
The study is divided into chapters dealing with the membrane component of MBRs, the biological component, system configurations, typical MBR performance, cost analyses, system applications, companies active in the market, market share, and industry structure. Quantitative evaluations are given for the major market segments, historically and for a 5-year horizon. The global scope of the MBR market is identified within four major geographical regions with information on regional economics, water needs, MBR experience, and proposed projects.
 
The MBR market in this study is centered on biological/membrane wastewater treatment for the municipal, industrial, and environmental sectors. The evaluated market does not include catalytic membrane reactors or enzymatic membrane reactors. 
 
 METHODOLOGY
 
Research for this report began with a re-analysis of the available technical and business literature, as well as an evaluation of the personal records of the water treatment industry available to the author. Conversations with industry experts and company representatives and a review of their published works provide the backbone for an evaluation of the water treatment equipment industry. Other sources of information include product literature from system suppliers, patent information, annual reports, and BCC Research’s monthly newsletter Membrane & Separation Technology News.
 
Growth rates of MBR systems are not the same for all world regions and are not increasing from the same base. Common to all regions, however, is the fact that sales of the technology are growing faster than the GDPs of countries installing the systems and more rapidly than the industries that use them. Forecasts in this report are based on announced projects and anticipated capacity additions over the next 5 years. 
 
MBR costs are based on published data and interviews with industry participants. MBR “systems” include headworks (screens, pumps, grit chamber) and other pretreatment systems, membrane units, reactor vessels, and other process tanks. Site costs, system installation costs, piping, instrumentation, and electrical/electronic controls are not included in the cost analysis. 
 
The capital cost of a 50,000 gpd (gallons per day) plant is estimated at $350,000, a 100,000 gpd plant at $500,000, and a 500,000 gpd plant at $2 million. For systems 1 mgd (million gallons per day) and larger, capital costs start at $3.5 million. The largest percentage of new system installations, 93%, will continue to fall into the 5,000 gpd to 500,000 gpd range (most of those, 57%, will have capacities of less than 25,000 gpd), 2% of installations will range from 0.5 mgd to 1 mgd, and 5% will be larger than 1 mgd. 
 
Currency conversions are normalized in so far as possible. Much of the historic information is from BCC data.
 
 INFORMATION SOURCES
 
The information sources for this study include online research, patent literature, technical journals, and interviews with principals in the industry. The monthly newsletter Membrane & Separation Technology News published by BCC Research provides regular updates on industry and technology news events influencing the membrane industry. 
 
In evaluating the global market for membrane bioreactors, information was obtained from the U.S. Department of Commerce; U.S. Department of State; Aquastat, the United Nations’ global water information system; and publications from the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, the European Commission, the Water Resources Institute, and various academic institutions. Projections for each market are made in terms of constant dollars. Historical values are for the year given.
 
 ANALYST CREDENTIALS
 
During the past 12 years, Susan Hanft has authored more than 16 market research reports for BCC Research in the fields of membrane technology, water, and wastewater treatment, and separations used in food and beverage manufacture, medicine and biotechnology. Ms. Hanft is also editor of the bi-monthly BCC Research newsletter Membrane & Separation Technology News. Professional affiliations include the North American Membrane Society, South Central Membrane Association, and the International Desalination Association. 
Need pricing for multiple titles, a complete report bundle, or something specially curated to fit your budget? EXPLORE OFFERS
Let us assist you! Our analysts are ready to tailor this report to your specific need. Talk to Our Analyst

Table of Contents

All reports provided in PDF format. For shared licensing options (5+ Users), please call a representative at (+1) 781-489-7301 or contact us at info@bccresearch.com
Title/Chapter NamePagesMember Price
Full Report: Membrane Bioreactors: Global Markets202Free
Chapter- 1: INTRODUCTION4Free
Chapter- 2: SUMMARY3Free
Chapter- 3: OVERVIEW23Free
Chapter- 4: APPLICATIONS FOR MBR TECHNOLOGY26Free
Chapter- 5: PATENT SURVEY3Free
Chapter- 6: THE NORTH AMERICAN MARKET FOR MBR TECHNOLOGY10Free
Chapter- 7: GLOBAL MARKETS FOR MBR TECHNOLOGY77Free
Chapter- 8: INDUSTRY STRUCTURE50Free
Chapter- 9: APPENDIX 6Free

Related Reports

Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments

In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.

Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.

Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.

With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.

Ready to see what tariff means for your business?

Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today

Stay Informed, Stay Competitive

In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.

Our analysis includes:

  • Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
  • Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
  • Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.

With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.

Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.

This is an Excel-only version of the report.

Report Includes

    Total Number of Tables in this Report: 36

  • Summary Table: GLOBAL MBR MARKET VALUE, THROUGH 2013
  • Table 1: COMPARISON OF AEROBIC, ANAEROBIC MBRS
  • Table 2: PROJECTED GLOBAL VALUE OF MBRS BY TYPE OF MICROBIAL PROCESS, THROUGH 2013
  • Table 3: PROJECTED GLOBAL VALUE OF MBRS BY CONFIGURATION, 1990-2013
  • Table 4: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF MBR CONFIGURATIONS
  • Table 5: MAJOR MANUFACTURERS OF MBRS AND THEIR PRODUCTS
  • Table 6: TECHNOLOGIES USED IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT
  • Table 7: CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS: MBR VS. ACTIVATED SLUDGE
  • Table 8: APPLICATIONS FOR MBR TECHNOLOGY BY WASTEWATER TYPE, 2008
  • Table 9: PROJECTED GLOBAL VALUE OF MBRS BY APPLICATION, THROUGH 2013
  • Table 10: TYPICAL CONTAMINANTS IN UNTREATED MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER
Sample Report

Recent Reports

Pharmaceutical Filtration: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST082C

The global market for pharmaceutical filtration is expected to grow from $12 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $20.3 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Membrane Bioreactors: Global Markets

Published - Aug 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST047G

The global market for membrane bioreactors is estimated to grow from $4.4 billion in 2025 to reach $9.4 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% from 2025 to 2030.

Smart Water Management: Global Markets to 2030

Published - Jun 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST083A

The global market for smart water management is expected to grow from $23.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $43.7 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Major Reverse Osmosis System Components for Water Treatment: The Global Market

Published - Nov 2024 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST049H

The global market for RO system components is expected to grow from $18.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $32.0 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.

Ultrafiltration Membranes: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - Sep 2024 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST044G

The global market for ultrafiltration membranes was valued at $4.9 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow from $5.2 billion in 2024 to $8.2 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2024 to 2029.

Top Trending Reports

Contract Manufacturing of Medical Devices: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MDS039B

The global market for contract manufacturing of medical devices is estimated to grow from $96.4 billion in 2025 to reach $155.2 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% from 2025 to 2030.

Bioprocess Filtration: Global Markets

Published - Oct 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MDS043B

The global market for bioprocess filtration is estimated to grow from $8.4 billion in 2025 to reach $15.6 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.1% from 2025 through 2030.

Global Data Center Market

Published - Jul 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - IFT320A

The global market for data centers is expected to grow from $418.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $691.6 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Biological Therapies for Cancer: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - BIO048E

The global biological therapies market for cancer is expected to grow from $157 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $225 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Immunotherapy Drugs: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PHM249B

The global immunotherapy drugs market is expected to grow from $260.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $467.4 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Published - Jan-2006| Analyst - Susan Hanft| Code - MST047A

Report Highlights

  • Valued at an estimated $216.6 million in 2005, the global MBR market is rising at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 10.9% and is expected to approach $363 million in 2010.
  • This segment is growing faster than the larger market for advanced wastewater treatment equipment and more rapidly than the markets for other types of membrane systems.
  • Anticipated stricter environmental regulations in the U.S. and overseas are driving sales of MBRs to industry and municipalities, and prompting maritime users to consider MBR technology.
  • During the forecast period, sewage treatment will continue to be the primary use for MBR systems.

Become A Member

BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.

Find Out More

Custom Consulting

BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.

Customize Now

Scorecard

The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.

Find Out More

Innovation Spotlight

Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.

Find Out More
Membrane Bioreactors: Global Markets
Customize Report
AI Sentiment