Biofiltración de Ácido Sulfhídrico (H2S), utilizando Bagazo de Caña de Azúcar y Piedra Pómez como Material de Soporte

Abstract

Design and operation parameters of a biofilter for controlling emissions of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in a gaseous effluent were determined experimentally by using sugarcane bagasse and pumice stone as support materials, inoculated with a microbial assorted colony (a consortium) capable of degrading H2S. Different tests were performed to determine maximum elimination capacity of these supports, as well as the effect of their concentration on removal efficiency. Because of the effect on the bio-filter operation, the variation of several properties of the supports, for example: moisture content, pH, and sulfate content was also studied. The monitoring of population variation of the different trophic groups, present in the supports, disclosed a trend toward growth of sulphur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) and reduction in heterotrophic bacteria, molds, and yeasts. Biofilter yields were high from the start, due probably to the inoculation, and to the characteristics of the support materials that proved suitable to establish and develop a microbial consortium. Removal efficiencies over 99% were continuously obtained whenever operational conditions were appropriate.