The presence of foam on reactors and aerated lagoons is one of the indications that something is wrong with the system. It can appear in different forms and have color variations in shades of white, brown or black.

White foam can occur due to nutrient deficiency, low dissolved oxygen, young sludge, carryover, and/or low TSS in the reactor. Black foam typically appears in aerated reactors that are operating under anaerobic conditions.

However, the most concerning is the foam with an oily appearance and dark brown/bronze coloration, caused by the presence of filamentous bacteria such as Microthrix parvicella or Nocardia sp., whose control becomes more difficult.

In these cases, it is essential to conduct a microscopic analysis, as this tool allows for the identification of the foam's origin. For more information, please contact our team!