(739f) Evaluation of an Industrial Bio-Catalyst for Reducing Hydrogen Sulfide of the Gas Stream from Domestic Wastewater Plant Treatment

Several substances are sources of unpleasant odor emissions coming from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) which hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is the most representative molecule. Chemical scrubbing is the conventional and predominant process used for treating gas streams with these kinds of emissions that affect the air quality and displeasure of inhabitants of the nearby neighborhoods. The aim of this research work was to evaluate the removal of hydrogen sulfide of a gas stream from WWTP of a city in the north of Colombia by using a commercial Bio-catalyst (BOC). Structural, design, and operation changes of the scrubber equipment were made in order to implement the BOC as a scrubbing solution. A central composite design was used to study the effect of the BOC volume rate and the damper valve (air entrance control) opening percentage on the removal grade of the H₂S. The results of the experimental analysis showed that both variables had a significant effect on the removal of H₂S. Optimal conditions of operation were found to be at BOC volume rate of 17.74 ml/min and 20% of valve opening percentage with a removal percentage of H₂S of 87.43%. This work was able to show the application of the BOC as a scrubbing solution for removing H₂S of a gas stream from WWTP. In addition, the BOC has some taking advantage of the conventional process due to is biodegradable and environmentally friendly (low toxicity and non-corrosive).