Technical Publications

Pilot-Scale Experiences in Converting a Chemical Scrubber to a Biotrickling Filter for the Treatment of Sewage Air

Lawrence C C Koe, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Lin Wu, Yong Ying Loo, Yih Ming Koh, Yan Wu, Jurn Wei Chai

Abstract

This paper presents some of the factors considered in the conversion of a pilot-scale chemical scrubber to a biotrickling filter. It will also share some experiences gained during the conversion process. The bacterium deployed in this conversion was Thiobacillus thiooxidans, which is the acid-tolerating species of Thiobacilli. In the converted biotrickling filter, an excellent H2S removal efficiency of greater than 99% was achieved at 3 s gas retention time. The average odour removal efficiency was about 75%. The converted biotrickling filter had an optimal pH range from 1.2 to 2.5. Plugging of excess biofilm was not observed during the course of the study. The converted biotrickling filter has been subjected to various testing scenarios such as diurnal variation of H2S concentration. The response of the biotrickling filter under this operating scenario will be documented and discussed in this paper.