Evaluation of biological hydrogen sulfide oxidation coupled with two-stage upflow filtration for groundwater treatment

J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng. 2004;39(5):1263-79. doi: 10.1081/ese-120030330.

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide in groundwater can be oxidized by aerobic bacteria to form elemental sulfur and biomass. While this treatment approach is effective for conversion of hydrogen sulfide, it is important to have adequate control of the biomass exiting the biological treatment system to prevent release of elemental sulfur into the distribution system. Pilot scale tests were conducted on a Florida groundwater to evaluate the use of two-stage upflow filtration downstream of biological sulfur oxidation. The combined biological and filtration process was capable of excellent removal of hydrogen sulfide and associated turbidity. Additional benefits of this treatment approach include elimination of odor generation, reduction of chlorine demand, and improved stability of the finished water.

MeSH terms

  • Bacteria, Aerobic
  • Filtration
  • Hydrogen Sulfide / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Soil Pollutants / isolation & purification*
  • Water Pollutants / isolation & purification*
  • Water Purification / methods*
  • Water Supply

Substances

  • Soil Pollutants
  • Water Pollutants
  • Hydrogen Sulfide