Global research trends on membrane biological reactor (MBR) for wastewater treatment and reuse from 1982 to 2013: A bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Purpose

Membrane biological reactor (MBR) is recognized as an efficient and steady wastewater treatment process. The purpose of this study is to reveal the research trends of scientific outputs on MBR for the past 32 years.

Design/methodology/approach

A method of bibliometric analysis was performed, based on the online version of the Science Citation Index Expanded, Web of Science, from 1982 to 2013. In total, 5,305 articles related to MBR were evaluated. A new method named “word cluster analysis” was also used for further analysis.

Findings

Results showed a rising trend of publications in this research field. English was the main language used in these articles. Journal of membrane science published the most articles, proving to be one of the most authoritative journals. China and Dalian University of Technology were the most productive country and institute, respectively. Except for “membrane bioreactor” and “MBR”, “membrane fouling” was the most cited keyword, indicating the research hotspot nowadays and future.

Originality/value

This study serves as an alternative and innovative way of revealing the research trends in MBR research.

Citation

Li, J., Zhang, B., Liu, Y. and Huang, W. (2016), "Global research trends on membrane biological reactor (MBR) for wastewater treatment and reuse from 1982 to 2013: A bibliometric analysis", The Electronic Library, Vol. 34 No. 6, pp. 945-957. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-07-2015-0113