MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA

The modular multilayer filtration system addresses the challenge of high efficiency and low costs by using varying filter media with natural oxygenation, reducing mechanical complexity and maintenance, suitable for diverse applications.

BR102025018068A2Pending Publication Date: 2026-07-14UNIVERSIDADE ESTADUAL DA PARAIBA

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
BR · BR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
UNIVERSIDADE ESTADUAL DA PARAIBA
Filing Date
2025-08-26
Publication Date
2026-07-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional filtration processes face challenges in achieving high efficiency with low operating and maintenance costs, particularly in contexts with limited infrastructure, and often rely on mechanical components that increase operational complexity and susceptibility to failure.

Method used

A modular multilayer filtration system with varying filter media configurations, incorporating aerobic and anaerobic systems, and utilizing intermittent downward flow with empty spaces between layers for natural oxygenation, eliminating the need for mechanical aeration systems.

Benefits of technology

The system achieves high treatment efficiency with reduced maintenance needs and operational costs, promoting sustainability and adaptability across different scales and contexts, especially suitable for low-income communities and areas with limited resources.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Description

/ 19 “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA” Field of Invention

[001] The present invention relates to a technology developed in the basic sanitation sector, intended for the treatment of wastewater, characterized by optimizing the filtration process by combining multiple layers composed of filter media selectable according to the specific characteristics of the products to be retained, presenting potential for wide application in different industrial processes. The filtration process is a unit operation with significant applicability in sectors such as the chemical, pharmaceutical, food, petrochemical, and many other industries. These sectors demand technologies that combine high efficiency with low operating costs, essential characteristics of the present invention. Fundamentals of the Invention

[002] The unit operation of filtration, by varying the filter medium, transcends the simple removal of visible particles, a process capable of removing particulate and soluble material, organic matter, nutrients and ionically charged substances, by varying the filter medium and / or integrating different filter material technologies. The key to this versatility lies in the choice and combination of different filtration media and technologies. Thus, filtration technology is widely used in the treatment of effluents (industrial, residential or rural) for the removal of Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 8 / 27 / 19 unwanted material, with conventional sand filters or activated carbon filters being the most widespread technologies due to their simplicity and efficiency. The filter medium, composed of porous materials (such as sand, quartz, pebbles, or anthracite), promotes physical retention of suspended solids. For smaller particles, microfiltration or ultrafiltration membranes can be incorporated. When necessary, adsorbents, preferably activated carbon or zeolites, are used to remove dissolved organic compounds responsible for color, taste, and odor. The filtration process also allows the removal of nutrients, such as nitrates and phosphates, through additional steps selected from: (i) reverse osmosis, (ii) ion exchange, or (iii) controlled biological processes (denitrification or biological phosphorus removal).For the removal of ionically charged species, mechanisms of (i) ion exchange, (ii) electrodialysis and / or (iii) nanofiltration can be integrated, depending on the required level of purity. Although conventional porous bed filters are widely used, such as sand filters, where particle retention and biological treatment occur through biofilm formation, these technologies have operational disadvantages, including the accumulation of organic material on the surface and the need for periodic maintenance for scraping and replacing the filter medium. The present process aims to reduce these limitations by incorporating solutions that minimize clogging without the use of complex mechanical systems, aerators or recirculators, making it suitable even for communities with technical and financial constraints. Thus, the proposed process has a modular character, applicable to industrial effluents. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 9 / 27 / 19 domestic or rural, offering high removal efficiency, lower maintenance requirements and greater economic accessibility, while maintaining the ability to achieve different treatment levels according to the desired application.

[003] One of the main challenges of conventional filtration processes lies in the need for treatment systems that combine high efficiency, low operating and maintenance costs, so that they become accessible to contexts with limited infrastructure, such as rural areas or small communities. Furthermore, the reliance on mechanical and / or electromechanical components in many alternative systems increases operational complexity and susceptibility to failure, especially in locations with restricted access to resources. Therefore, there is a demand for filtration solutions that combine high efficiency, low operating costs, and simple construction, enabling their adoption in resource-limited locations.

[004] The present invention solves this problem by applying a multi-layered filter that can combine aerobic and anaerobic systems, can combine different filter media, can be open or pressurized, can be aerobic with intermittent and downward flow, and is designed to operate without the need for mechanical aeration systems. The innovation does not focus on describing the materials and filter media to be used, but rather on the numerous possibilities of combining different filter media, associating in series different layers of filter media, which can be sand, gravel, crushed stone, activated carbon, woven or non-woven material, ion exchange resins, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, nanofiltration, organized in several layers. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 10 / 27 / 19 combined filters in series with empty spaces between them. The number of filter layers can vary, with the only limit being a minimum of two layers, but there is no maximum limit regarding the number of filter layers. When operated with intermittent flow in wastewater treatment, the empty spaces allow oxygen to be stored during rest periods, ensuring natural oxygenation of the system. This feature eliminates the need for aerators, significantly reducing costs and operational complexity. However, if necessary, oxygen, or any other gas, can be inserted into the desired filter layer through a tube.

[005] Furthermore, the multi-layered configuration and the possibility of downward flow promote a uniform distribution of the liquid. In the case of wastewater treatment, uniform distribution optimizes contact with the biofilm formed in the filter layers. This design improves the efficiency in removing organic and nitrogenous matter, as well as reducing the need for maintenance, since the material used can be durable and does not require periodic scraping, as occurs in conventional sand filters.

[006] The main advantage of the invention is its versatility and wide applicability, but the well-designed system also includes the following advantages: 1. Low cost: Can operate without mechanical components and using readily available support materials; 2. Easy operation and maintenance: Reduces the need for technical intervention; Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 11 / 27 / 19 3. Sustainability: Promotes the efficient use of natural resources, reducing energy consumption; 4. Universal Applicability: This modular system allows for varying the number of layers, with two layers being the minimum limit but no maximum (2<). The filter medium can and should be selected according to the sector's technical requirements. The material used for constructing the reactor and supporting the filter media can and should also be chosen by the responsible technician to select the best option according to the sector's operational reality. Furthermore, it is a suitable system for low-income communities and areas with limited infrastructure.

[007] Thus, the invention represents a significant advance in treatment by filtration process, especially in wastewater treatment, offering a practical, efficient and affordable solution to address global basic sanitation challenges. State of the Art

[008] Patent application BR 20 2020 008669-9 U2, entitled “Multilayer Filter with micrometric openings for pumping water in surface intakes” mentions a multilayer filtering system, but makes no mention of the existence of chambers between the filter elements or the possibility of aeration between the filter layers, which would make the process more efficient, as in the case of the solution now proposed.

[009] Australian patent AU 3480500 A entitled “Classified particle size retention filter medium for cell-type filter unit” discloses a cell-type filter unit having two or more layers Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, p. 12 / 27 / 19 and / or filter media areas, but it also makes no mention of the existence of chambers between the filter elements or the possibility of aeration between the filter layers, which would make the process more efficient, as in the case of the solution now proposed.

[010] European patent EP 2049720 B1 entitled “Method for making shaped filtration articles” presents a method for manufacturing filter elements where the formed filter articles are made of a single-component nonwoven mat formed by the flow of first and second fiber-forming materials of the same polymeric composition through the first and second matrix cavities in the respective fluid communication, a solution with a scope completely distinct from the invention proposed here.

[011] The Chinese utility model CN ​​116514198 A entitled “Waste liquid separation system for environment-friendly safe high-performance liquid chromatography mobile phase” refers to a waste liquid separation system, in particular a safe and environmentally friendly high-performance liquid chromatography mobile phase waste liquid separation system, comprising a power distribution liquid chromatography workbench, a waste liquid collection module, a waste liquid separation module, a toxic gas collection module, a detection module and a volatilization separation control module, wherein the volatilization separation control module is used to detect and control the separation condition of toxic gases in waste liquids and perform the corresponding parameter adjustment in order to ensure that the toxic waste gas is Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 13 / 27 / 19 completely volatilized. The scope diverges completely from the invention proposed here.

[012] None of the aforementioned prior art proposes a solution comparable to that of the present invention, which comprises a Multilayer Filter with Empty Spacing Between Layers, designed to replace conventional filters with continuous operation, low cost and high efficiency. Brief description of the drawings

[013] Therefore, in order to allow for a better elucidation of the proposed invention, its description will be given with reference to the following figures and tables, where: Figure 1 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the multilayer filter; Figure 2 illustrates the detail of the assembly of each filter layer on the support structure; Figure 3 illustrates a multilayer filter assembled for operation. Detailed description of the invention

[014] The present invention relates to a multilayer filtration process and system, with different possible variations, designed to replace conventional filters and optimize filtration treatment, providing a sustainable alternative. The solution seeks to meet the need for more adaptive filtration technologies that reduce operating costs and offer greater flexibility in adapting to each sector and specific needs. It is a low-cost technology with minimal maintenance. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 14 / 27 / 19 simplified and highly efficient, especially in contexts where access to financial and technical resources is limited. Previous studies point to the effectiveness of aerobic biofilms in wastewater treatment, but their conventional application in sand filters presents significant operational challenges, such as the need for periodic scraping to prevent clogging and the dependence on mechanical aeration systems to ensure the presence of oxygen (Metcalf & Eddy, Wastewater Engineering: Treatment and Resource Recovery, McGraw-Hill Education, 2014).

[015] The proposed system consists of several layers of filter material; this filter medium can be anything composed of fabrics or similar materials, membrane, charcoal, polymer, or even sand, arranged in such a way as to create substantial empty spaces between the layers (Figure 1). These spaces are designed for the separation of the retained material, and when operated with intermittent flow, this space can ensure the retention of atmospheric oxygen during rest periods, eliminating the need for active aeration devices. However, if a closed and pressurized system is required, air ducts can be installed for the dispersion of a specific gas in the selected module. Natural oxygenation favors the formation and maintenance of aerobic biofilms, responsible for the removal not only of organic matter but also of nutrients, mainly nitrogen.Studies show that intermittent systems that promote natural aeration cycles can achieve high levels of BOD removal and other organic pollutants, significantly reducing operating costs (Alves, MP; de Sousa, TAT; Feitosa, WBS; Leite, VD; Lopes, WS;). Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, p. 15 / 27 / 19 SOUZA, J T. de. Enhanced Nitrification in UASB Reactor Effluent Using Non-Woven Fabric Filters: A Low-Cost Post-Treatment Solution. Environmental Engineering Science, 2024; 41(9): 358-366).

[016] One possible variation is that the reactor is not operated with intermittent flow, is a closed system, and gas is injected for specific treatments: Oxygen (O2) for oxidation; Carbon Dioxide (CO2) for pH control, carbon source, oxidation inhibition; Nitrogen (N2) for oxygen reduction, prevention of explosions or oxidation in reactors, stimulation of nitrogen-fixing bacteria; Hydrogen (H2) for chemical reduction, energy source, support for anaerobic biological processes, ammonia production (Haber-Bosch process), hydrogenation reactions; among other possible gases. These gases are chosen based on their chemical and biological properties, optimizing processes and ensuring efficiency in the desired application.

[017] The downward flow allows for uniform distribution of the effluent across the filter layers, avoids the cost of a pumping system, and optimizes contact with the bioactive and aerated surfaces, maximizing treatment efficiency. The modular filter design also facilitates its installation and maintenance, eliminating complex operations such as scraping, typical of sand filters. The woven or non-woven support material allows for washing or backwashing, increasing its lifespan. This configuration not only simplifies system operation but also increases its durability and reduces the frequency of technical interventions. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 16 / 27 / 19

[018] In terms of performance, the multilayer aerobic filter is designed to withstand significant variations in hydraulic and organic load, being particularly suitable for sanitation systems in rural communities, small towns or industries with low to medium complexity effluents. Furthermore, by not depending on electrical energy for aeration, the technology promotes environmental and economic sustainability, aligning with global initiatives for the universalization of basic sanitation (WHO / UNICEF, Progress on Household Drinking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2000-2020, 2021).

[019] In accordance with the concepts and objectives set forth in the brief description above, and in accordance with the claims to be made, this patent application presents a “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN FILTER MEDIA”, consisting of several layers of filter media (1) which may include fabrics or other materials with different porosities, depending on the specificity of their application, arranged in such a way as to maintain significant empty spaces (2) between the layers (1), which ensure better control and more efficient monitoring and, when operated with intermittent flow, may facilitate the presence of oxygen during the system's rest periods, allowing natural oxygenation without the need for mechanical or artificial aerators.

[020] The present invention relates to a “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA” that Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 17 / 27 / 19, describes an aerobic filter with intermittent downward flow, designed for wastewater treatment, aiming to replace conventional filters, such as sand filters. The invention can utilize low-cost materials, which may or may not be woven, mounted on a support material in a way that completely seals the passage of fluid, forcing the influent to pass through the filter. The filter is composed of multiple layers, with significant empty spaces between them. This design allows passive oxygenation during rest periods, eliminating the need for mechanical aeration systems and ensuring the maintenance of aerobic conditions. However, if the specific application requires the insertion of a gas, the system can be adapted for continuous pumping of the necessary gas and, optionally, can also be closed with pumping of the flow to accelerate the filtration process.Furthermore, the filter material can vary, being either adsorbent or absorbent, and the porosity of the filter medium can vary from one layer to another, reducing the size of the retained particles.

[021] The filter is designed to be a low-cost solution, easy to operate and maintain, promoting high efficiency in removing organic matter without the drawbacks of conventional systems, such as clogging and the need for periodic scraping. It is especially suitable for low-income communities, remote areas or locations with limited infrastructure.

[022] The system structure consists of the following elements: - Filter Material (1): Can be synthetic fabric or other porous and degradation-resistant materials. The material is arranged in alternating layers, forming a multilayer bed. The number Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 18 / 27 / 19. The number of layers can vary from a minimum of two layers to an infinite number of layers (number of layers: 2<), depending on the operator's needs. The filter medium can be different from one layer to another, altering the material and its physicochemical properties and porosity, retaining different materials in each layer, as well as different particle sizes. - Empty Spaces (2) between layers: The spaces can be for separating retained particulate matter, or for slowing down the flow of any gases introduced. In addition, if operated with intermittent flow, and if it is an open system, designed so that during rest periods the empty space is occupied by atmospheric oxygen, allowing the natural regeneration of aerobic conditions, and consequently greater contact with oxygen.

[023] The system operation allows the following configurations: - Downflow Configuration: In this configuration, the system can be operated without pumping, where the flow optimizes the contact between the wastewater and the biofilm formed in the filter layers (1), as well as with the gases accumulated between the layers, with the influent being introduced at the top of the filter and flowing by gravity through said layers (2); - Intermittent Operation: In this configuration, after each feeding cycle, the system enters a rest period, during which atmospheric oxygen fills the empty spaces, restoring aerobic conditions in the filter. [ 024] The system treatment process has the following characteristics: - Feed: The raw or previously settled influent is introduced into the system by gravity; Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 19 / 27 / 19 - Physical and Biological Filtration: During downward flow, solid particles are retained in the upper layers, while dissolved organic matter is treated by the biofilm developed on the filter surfaces; - Natural Oxygenation: After the flow ceases, the system comes to rest, allowing atmospheric air to reoccupy the empty spaces between the layers; - Drainage and Repetition: The cycle is repeated continuously or as needed.

[025] The proposed filter also has the following advantages: - Modular Dimensions: The filter can be scaled according to treatment demand and influent flow rate, varying in area, height, and volume. The number of layers can also vary, with a minimum of 2 layers and no maximum limit. - Flexibility regarding the use of filter materials: Synthetic fabric, geotextiles, activated carbon, sand, steel mesh, among other locally available materials, preferably materials resistant to the action of biological and chemical agents, allowing the filter medium to be different from one layer to another, which enables the versatility of the treatment, being able to filter materials with different particle sizes and different physicochemical properties; - Maintenance Setup: The modular design facilitates the replacement of worn layers without the need to disassemble the entire system; - Elimination of Aerators: Reduction of operational costs and energy consumption; Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 20 / 27 / 19 - High Efficiency: Efficient removal of organic matter through physical filtration and biological degradation; Low Implementation Cost: Use of affordable materials and simple design. - Sustainability: Reducing environmental impact and promoting accessible technologies, characterizing it as a Green Patent; - Easy Adaptation: Can be used on different scales, from small residences to large industrial facilities.

[026] Below are some examples of applications of the filtering solution proposed here: • Residential System: A filter with an area of ​​1 m2 and 5 layers, capable of treating the wastewater of a family of 5 people; • Community System: 10 m2 filters for rural communities, processing up to 5,000 L of sewage per day; • Industrial System: Filters adapted for industrial effluents with low organic load, with specific layers for the retention of heavy metals.

[027] In order for a person skilled in the art to reproduce the invention, it is necessary to define the volume and flow rate that the system must treat, so that it is possible to dimension the filter, which can be scaled by varying the area and number of layers. The spacing between the layers does not require much precision, it being important that there is sufficient space to allow natural aeration of the medium.

[028] The filter medium can be different from one layer to another, which enables versatility in treatment, being able to filter materials with different particle sizes and different physicochemical properties. Woven or non-woven material can be used. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, pp. 21 / 27 / 19 fabric (ABNT. (2017). Nonwoven - Terminology. In Brazilian Association of Technical Standards: Vol. 2nd Edition (pp. 1-13); and ISO, IO for S. (2019). ISO 9092:2019 Nonwovens — Test methods (3rd ed.)), synthetic fabric, geotextiles, activated carbon, sand, steel mesh, ion exchange resin, absorbent or adsorbent material, and even substances for disinfection, among other locally available materials, with the use of materials resistant to the action of biological and chemical agents being recommended.

[029] The feeding and resting cycles, depending on the applied load, must be calculated, or can be tested experimentally. Periodic cleaning, or layer replacement and inspection must be identified by the operator, who, by periodically monitoring, will notice clogging due to the incrustation of residual material, until complete blockage. Cleaning can be done by backwashing, or by disassembling the filter to wash each material, or by replacing it. This information is sufficient for the system to be replicated in different contexts, ensuring the viability and technical efficiency of the invention.

[030] The proposed solution aims to replace conventional systems and support the universalization of basic sanitation, promoting a low-cost, easy-to-operate, and accessible technology. In addition to its broad potential for application in the industrial sector, the present invention is an excellent technology for any treatment requiring a filtration process, such as wastewater treatment using a filtration system that combines passive oxygenation, gravimetric flow, and multiple layers of filter material, promoting removal. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 22 / 27 / 19 efficient removal of organic matter without the need for mechanical aeration systems.

[031] In the sanitation sector, this inventive concept addresses two central technical problems in an interrelated way: 1. Efficiency in wastewater treatment: By integrating active biofilm into the filter layers and natural oxygenation during periods of rest, the invention offers high efficiency in the degradation of both particulate and soluble organic matter; 2. Simplicity and operational accessibility: The design eliminates the need for mechanical aerators and drastically reduces operating and maintenance costs compared to traditional systems, making it an adaptable solution for regions with limited infrastructure.

[032] Both technical problems are directly connected to the main purpose of the invention, which is to provide a sustainable, low-cost and operationally simple technology for physical filtration treatment, with added benefits such as durability, modularity and adaptability potential for various scales and contexts.

[033] The invention described is also aligned with the following inventive concept: the replacement of conventional sand filters with an intermittent, downward-flow multilayer aerobic filter, which solves interrelated technical problems in an innovative and efficient way.

[034] This concept is centered on an integrated solution that combines: • Passive oxygenation during periods of flow rest, eliminating the need for mechanical aerators; Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, page 23 / 27 / 19 • Multilayer filtration using materials with spacing designed to optimize particulate matter retention and promote the growth of active aerobic biofilms.

[035] These aspects address interconnected problems related to treatment efficiency and reduction of operational costs, demonstrating that the invention respects the requirement of uniqueness of inventive concept, as required by Brazilian legislation.

[036] The solution proposed here allows the use of diverse materials for the filter layers, such as synthetic fabrics, metal meshes, natural fibers, activated carbon, sand, among others, with strategically designed spacing between the layers.

[037] In an experimental setup, layers composed of highly permeable synthetic fabrics were used, interspersed with 5 to 8 cm voids to ensure passive oxygenation during rest periods. Each layer was supported by a rigid, modular structure, facilitating the assembly and maintenance of the system. The effluent flow was downward, allowing particulate matter to be retained in the upper layers, while the voids promoted aerobic biofilm oxygenation. During the rest period, atmospheric air occupied the voids, providing sufficient oxygen to regenerate the biofilm and maintain the aerobic efficiency of the treatment.

[038] Additionally, tests were carried out applying the multilayer aerobic filter as a post-treatment for a dynamic membrane anaerobic reactor. The work was published in a doctoral thesis with all the results. As an international publication, Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, pp. 24 / 27 / 19, an article was submitted for publication in Water Research. It is estimated that maintenance needs will be reduced by more than 70%, as the system eliminates the manual scraping required in sand filters. Operating costs have also proven to be significantly lower due to the absence of aeration equipment and the durability of the filter layers.

[039] These elements characterize the invention as an innovative, efficient and sustainable technology, with strong appeal for sanitation solutions in contexts of low infrastructure and limited resources.

[040] This descriptive report dealt with a new “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN FILTER MEDIA”, presenting, as can be seen from the description and the Figures presented, some advantages and differentiated applications in relation to the state of the art, resulting in lower post-harvest losses, making it eligible for a green patent application, low production costs and high nutritional and antioxidant value because it does not use chemical additives.

[041] Having, therefore, described and illustrated the best embodiment currently contemplated for the realization of the present Invention Patent, numerous modifications and variations in its embodiment may be readily introduced by technicians and specialists in the field. However, it is understood that the present invention is not limited to the practical aspects illustrated and described in this report, encompassing within its scope all obvious variations and modifications not described. Due to the advantages it offers and also because it is... Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, pages 25 / 27 / 19, regarding Novelty, Industrial Application and Inventive Activity, fulfills all the requirements and meets the necessary conditions to obtain an Invention Patent. Petition 870260035971, dated 04 / 17 / 2026, pp. 26 / 27

Claims

1 / 3 CLAIMS 1. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA”, comprising a wastewater treatment process that uses an aerobic multilayer filter with intermittent downward flow, characterized by including the steps of: a) introduction of wastewater into the system by means of a downward flow; b) mechanical filtration of particulate matter in the filter layers; c) biological removal of soluble organic matter promoted by aerobic biofilms formed in the layers; d) passive oxygenation of the empty spaces between layers during rest periods, dispensing with the use of mechanical aerators.

2. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA”, comprising a wastewater treatment process using an aerobic multilayer filter with intermittent downward flow, according to claim 1, characterized by operating in alternating filtration and rest cycles, with rest time adjusted to ensure complete oxygenation of the empty spaces between the filter layers.

3. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA”, comprising a wastewater treatment process using an aerobic multilayer filter with intermittent and downward flow, according to claim 1, characterized by being applicable to effluents containing a high organic load, providing removal of suspended solids and organic matter with an efficiency greater than 80%.

4. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN FILTER MEDIA”, suitable for replacing conventional filters, such as sand filters, in wastewater treatment systems, comprising a filtration system characterized by having a modular structure comprising multiple layers of filter material (1) with empty spaces (2) between them, without a maximum number of layers, capable of promoting the retention of particulate solids, the growth of aerobic biofilms and the passage of flow in a downward direction, the system being configured to operate with rest periods that allow the occupation of the empty spaces (2) by atmospheric oxygen, dispensing with the use of mechanical aerators for this purpose.

5. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN THE FILTER MEDIA”, according to claim 4, characterized by using different filter materials that may include woven or non-woven fabrics, synthetic fibers, activated carbon, sand or polymers, arranged alternately and sized to optimize filtration efficiency and passive oxygenation. Petition 870250075608, dated 08 / 26 / 2025, page 19 / 40 3 / 3 6. “MODULAR MULTILAYER FILTRATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH VARIABLE CONFIGURATION IN FILTER MEDIA”, according to claim 4, characterized in that said layers of filter material (1) allow variation in material, porosity, filtration objective and thickness, with the number of layers varying from two layers to multiple and unlimited layers, providing empty space (2) between the layers to facilitate maintenance, material separation and promote natural aeration, if operating intermittently. Petition 870250075608, dated 08 / 26 / 2025, page 20 / 40