Biodegradation of Benzene by Acetic Acid Bacteria in Biofilter

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the biodegradation of volatile organic compounds by acetic acid bacteria characterized by their strong activity in oxidation of alcohol and a wide range of sugars. Possible utilization of Acetobacter pasteurianus 3612 and A. pasteurianus 3614 as a source of microorganisms in biofiltration processes was evaluated in the treatment of air contaminated with benzene. Process parameters, e.g. inlet and outlet concentrations of contaminant, elimination efficiency and loading rate in laboratory biofilters were evaluated for 62 days of biofilter operation. Biofiltration experiments by adding Acetobacter cells into the biofiltration bed have revealed benzene degradation in biofilters with the efficiency up to 83.7-99.6 %. The obtained data are comparable with the biodegradation efficiency of conventionally used bacteria from activated sludge waste treatment. Increasing concentration of the tested contaminant in air had no negative effect on biofilter operation.