CA2186202A1 - Method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilterInfo
- Publication number
- CA2186202A1 CA2186202A1 CA002186202A CA2186202A CA2186202A1 CA 2186202 A1 CA2186202 A1 CA 2186202A1 CA 002186202 A CA002186202 A CA 002186202A CA 2186202 A CA2186202 A CA 2186202A CA 2186202 A1 CA2186202 A1 CA 2186202A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- biofilter
- packing elements
- selected microorganisms
- microorganisms
- housing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 22
- 244000005700 microbiome Species 0.000 claims abstract description 57
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 54
- 230000003100 immobilizing effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 26
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 26
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 24
- 230000035899 viability Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000003431 cross linking reagent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- IXPNQXFRVYWDDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1-methyl-2,4-dioxo-1,3-diazinane-5-carboximidamide Chemical group CN1CC(C(N)=N)C(=O)NC1=O IXPNQXFRVYWDDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 9
- 235000010413 sodium alginate Nutrition 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000661 sodium alginate Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 229940005550 sodium alginate Drugs 0.000 claims description 9
- BNGXYYYYKUGPPF-UHFFFAOYSA-M (3-methylphenyl)methyl-triphenylphosphanium;chloride Chemical group [Cl-].CC1=CC=CC(C[P+](C=2C=CC=CC=2)(C=2C=CC=CC=2)C=2C=CC=CC=2)=C1 BNGXYYYYKUGPPF-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 3
- HRPVXLWXLXDGHG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acrylamide Chemical compound NC(=O)C=C HRPVXLWXLXDGHG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L Calcium chloride Chemical group [Cl-].[Cl-].[Ca+2] UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000001110 calcium chloride Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910001628 calcium chloride Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000007788 roughening Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 210000004027 cell Anatomy 0.000 description 9
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Chemical compound O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000013101 initial test Methods 0.000 description 4
- CMMUKUYEPRGBFB-UHFFFAOYSA-L dichromic acid Chemical compound O[Cr](=O)(=O)O[Cr](O)(=O)=O CMMUKUYEPRGBFB-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 3
- 239000012153 distilled water Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000011081 inoculation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920006395 saturated elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 241000605272 Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- RWSOTUBLDIXVET-UHFFFAOYSA-N Dihydrogen sulfide Chemical compound S RWSOTUBLDIXVET-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007444 cell Immobilization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002361 compost Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000001822 immobilized cell Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009630 liquid culture Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010808 liquid waste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011068 loading method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000813 microbial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000015097 nutrients Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 210000003463 organelle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000003415 peat Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
- B01D53/34—Chemical or biological purification of waste gases
- B01D53/74—General processes for purification of waste gases; Apparatus or devices specially adapted therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
- B01D53/34—Chemical or biological purification of waste gases
- B01D53/74—General processes for purification of waste gases; Apparatus or devices specially adapted therefor
- B01D53/84—Biological processes
- B01D53/85—Biological processes with gas-solid contact
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J19/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J19/30—Loose or shaped packing elements, e.g. Raschig rings or Berl saddles, for pouring into the apparatus for mass or heat transfer
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/10—Packings; Fillings; Grids
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/10—Packings; Fillings; Grids
- C02F3/101—Arranged-type packing, e.g. stacks, arrays
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/10—Packings; Fillings; Grids
- C02F3/105—Characterized by the chemical composition
- C02F3/108—Immobilising gels, polymers or the like
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
- C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
- C12M1/00—Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J2219/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J2219/30—Details relating to random packing elements
- B01J2219/304—Composition or microstructure of the elements
- B01J2219/30466—Plastics
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A50/00—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE in human health protection, e.g. against extreme weather
- Y02A50/20—Air quality improvement or preservation, e.g. vehicle emission control or emission reduction by using catalytic converters
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Microbiology (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Bioinformatics & Cheminformatics (AREA)
- Biotechnology (AREA)
- Zoology (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
- Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Molecular Biology (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Biochemistry (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Genetics & Genomics (AREA)
- Apparatus Associated With Microorganisms And Enzymes (AREA)
Abstract
A method for inoculating a biofilter intended for use in treating air emissions. Firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor. Secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics. Thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms. Fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms. Fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of the selected microorganisms. Sixthly, distributing the packing elements throughout an interior cavity of a biofilter housing.
Description
TITLE OF T~E INVENTION:
method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter NAME OF INVENTOR:
Richard Nigel Coleman FIELD OF THE INYENTION
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter and, in particular, a biofilter used for treating air emissions.
R~r~RouND OF THE INVENTION
One shortcoming o~ biofiltration is that a period of time is required for selected microorganisms with desired characteristics to become acclimatized and present in sufficient concentrations to perform their intended function.
During this period of time, the selected microorganisms must compete for space and nourishment with other microorganisms present in the biofilter. Inoculation of the biofilter has become a recognized manner of accelerating this acclimatization process. With inoculation the initial concentration of the selected microorganisms is increased substantially.
Inoculation of the biofilter is discussed in the patent and technical literature, such as United States Patent 4,662,900 by Ottengraf from 1987 and a paper delivered by Dr. Richard N.
Coleman to the 12th Annual General Meeting of BIOMINET in November 1995, entitled ~'Specific Biofilter Process Design Using Bacteria Capable of Removing Hydrogen Sulphide from Air Emissions".
In order to inoculate the biofilter, the selected microorganisms must first be immobilized in a form that can easily be handled. There are a variety of methods of cell immobilization, as described in texts such as "Immobilized Cells and Organelles" edited by Bo Mattiasson and published by CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida. The most common of these methods is to immobilize the cells in polymer beads.
At the present time polymer beads are used in the treatment of liquid wastes, but generally not in biofilters used for treating air emissions. The current method of inoculating a biofilter consists of inserting into the biofilter a volume of liquid cont~in;ng the selected microorganisms into the biofilter. Although this creates an area of concentration within the biofilter, it takes time for a spatial distribution of the selected microorganisms to occur within the biofilter. During this period of time, the selected microorganisms still must compete for space and nourishment with other microorganisms present in the biofilter.
SU~IARY OF THE INVENTION
What is required is a method for inoculating a biofilter that results in an improved spatial distribution of the selected microorganisms.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for inoculating a biofilter. Firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor. Secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics. Thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms. Fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms. Fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of the selected microorganisms. Sixthly, spatially distributing the packing elements throughout an interior cavity of a biofilter housing.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a biofilter packing element which includes a rigid three dimensional structure. The structure has a first coating including an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorganisms. The structure also has a second coating including a cross-linking agent.
According to a final aspect of the present invention there is provided a biofilter that includes a housing with an interior cavity. Filter medium is disposed in the housing.
The filter medium includes a plurality of biofilter packing elements. Each of the packing elements includes a frame-like structure. The structure has a first coating including an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorgAn;s~.
The structure has a second coating including a cross-linking agent. The packing elements are spatially distributed throughout the interior cavity of the housing. It is preferred that the spatial distribution be random in order to provide a non-linear flow path through the interior cavity of the housing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings, wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a biofilter packing element constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
FIGURE 2 is a top plan view of the biofilter packing element illustrated in FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 is a magnified cutaway view of the biofilter packing element illustrated in FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 4 is a biofilter constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, using a plurality of the packing elements illustrated in FIGURE 1.
DET~TT-~n DESCRIPTION OF THE ~KI5~ISKK~V EMBODIMENT
The preferred embodiment, a biofilter packing element generally identified by reference numeral 10, will now be described with reference to FIGURES 1 through 4.
Referring to FIGURE 1, biofilter packing element 10 includes a rigid three dimensional structure 12. Suitable rigid packing elements 10 are available through a variety of suppliers. The packing elements are selected in a geometric configuration which provides a maximum possible surface area per volume. Beneficial results have been obtained through the use of a biofilter packing element sold by FABCO PLASTICS of Toronto, Ontario under the Trademark PALL rings. Referring to FIGURE 2, PALL rings have a cylindrical frame-like structure, that has a plurality of internal cross-members 14. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, frame-like structure 12 is specially coated. Referring to FIGURE 3, frame-like structure 12 has a first coating 16 of an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorganisms 17.
Immobilizing agents are well known in the technical literature.
The particular immobilizing agent selected must be compatible with the viability of the selected microorganisms. In initial testing, the selected microorganism was Thiobacillus thiooxidans. Beneficial results were obtained when sodium alginate was used as the immobilizing agent. There are various alternative immobilizing agents which may be tested for viability with selected microorganisms, such as poly-acrylamide. Frame-like structure 12 also has a second coating 18 including a cross-linking agent. The cross-linking agent must also be compatible with the viability and activity of the selected microorganisms. In initial testing, beneficial results were obtained when aluminum nitrate was used. There are alternative cross-linking agents which may be tested for viability with selected microorganisms, such as calcium chloride. Any agent that is capable of chemically connecting one part of a molecule to an adjacent molecule to provide a cross-link may be used. The cross-linking agent penetrates the immobilizing agent cont~i n ing the selected microorganisms, providing rigidity to the coating and firmly entrapping the cells within the coating. Referring to FIGURE 4, a biofilter 20 is provided which includes a housing 22 with an interior cavity 24, in which is positioned filter medium in the form of a plurality of biofilter packing elements 10.
The method of use of biofilter packing elements 10 will now be described with reference to FIGUR~S 1 and 2. The method includes the following steps. Firstly, providing a plurality of untreated biofilter packing elements. Secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics. Cells for the selected microorganisms are grown in a liquid culture. The cells are then concentrated by centrifuging. Beneficial results have been obtained by centrifuging at 10,000 x G for 15 minutes. Thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms. The cells recovered by centrifuging are re-suspended in the immobilizing agent. In this case the immobilizing agent consisted of distilled water mixed with sodium alginate to form a 2% sodium alginate solution. The re-suspended cells in the immobilization agent should be only 10% of their original volume. Care must be taken in mixing the sodium alginate. It is preferable to divide the quantity of distilled water in half. The selected microorganisms are re-suspended in one half. Sodium alginate is slowly added to the other half. The sodium alginate is slightly hydrophobic. It will not mix well in water at first.
Care should be taken to add the sodium alginate as finely as possible to avoid the formation of large clumps. Large clumps 2l 86202 are difficult to hydrate. When all the sodium alginate has been added and is uniformly hydrated, the half containing the re-suspended selected microorganisms is added, and the two halves are mixed together. Fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms. In preparation for coating the PALL rings are treated in a 50%
dichromic acid glass cleaning solution for 24 hours. The dichromic acid prepares them for use by producing a rough surface so the coating will adhere better. At the end of the treatment period the PALL rings are washed with distilled water to remove all traces of dichromic acid. The PALL rings are then dipped into the microorganism cont~; n i ng immobilizing agent for a few seconds, and then removed. Fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-link;ng agent. The PALL
rings are placed into a bath of cross-linking agent, where they are left undisturbed for one hour. In initial testing O.lM
aluminum nitrate was used. Sixthly, spatially distributing biofilter packing elements 10 throughout interior cavity 24 of housing 22 of biofilter 20. Referring to FIGURE 4, biofilter 20 is filled with biofilter elements 10. Biofilter packing elements 10 are, preferably, randomly arranged in order to provide a non-linear flow through interior cavity of housing 22. The coatings of biofilter packing elements 10 must not dry at any time. To prevent drying, water saturated air is circulated through interior cavity 24 of housing 22 of biofilter 20. During operation of biofilter 20, it is continuously supplied with a water vapour saturated gas stream and nutrients appropriate for the selected microorganisms.
Care is taken during all steps to ensure that temperature of the microorganisms is controlled so as not to adversely effect their viability with excess heat.
The concentration of cells in the coatings on biofilter packing elements 10 is in excess of 1 x 108 per dry gram of coating. When the teachings of the present method as followed, there is an initial concentration that can reach its optimum operating capacity within days. It is preferred that the filter medium consist solely of biofilter packing elements 10.
This means that no peat moss, compost, soil, bark, etc of any kind is to be added to the filter medium. In order for packing elements 10 to work by themselves they must be rigid, so that they can support each other. When this teaching is followed there are no resident microorganisms with which the selected microorganisms must compete for space and nourishment.
When the teachings of the present method were employed in initial testing with volatile air emissions, it was determined that the initial high and specific microbial loading minimized the time for acclimation of the biofilter and allowed the biofilter to quickly move to optimum operating capacity. The process optimizes the occupation of available sites by selected microorganisms. It m; n;mi zes the volume of the reactor. The spatial arrangement allows maximum contact of the microorganisms with volatile air emissions.
It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the illustrated embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter defined in the Claims.
method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter NAME OF INVENTOR:
Richard Nigel Coleman FIELD OF THE INYENTION
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter and, in particular, a biofilter used for treating air emissions.
R~r~RouND OF THE INVENTION
One shortcoming o~ biofiltration is that a period of time is required for selected microorganisms with desired characteristics to become acclimatized and present in sufficient concentrations to perform their intended function.
During this period of time, the selected microorganisms must compete for space and nourishment with other microorganisms present in the biofilter. Inoculation of the biofilter has become a recognized manner of accelerating this acclimatization process. With inoculation the initial concentration of the selected microorganisms is increased substantially.
Inoculation of the biofilter is discussed in the patent and technical literature, such as United States Patent 4,662,900 by Ottengraf from 1987 and a paper delivered by Dr. Richard N.
Coleman to the 12th Annual General Meeting of BIOMINET in November 1995, entitled ~'Specific Biofilter Process Design Using Bacteria Capable of Removing Hydrogen Sulphide from Air Emissions".
In order to inoculate the biofilter, the selected microorganisms must first be immobilized in a form that can easily be handled. There are a variety of methods of cell immobilization, as described in texts such as "Immobilized Cells and Organelles" edited by Bo Mattiasson and published by CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida. The most common of these methods is to immobilize the cells in polymer beads.
At the present time polymer beads are used in the treatment of liquid wastes, but generally not in biofilters used for treating air emissions. The current method of inoculating a biofilter consists of inserting into the biofilter a volume of liquid cont~in;ng the selected microorganisms into the biofilter. Although this creates an area of concentration within the biofilter, it takes time for a spatial distribution of the selected microorganisms to occur within the biofilter. During this period of time, the selected microorganisms still must compete for space and nourishment with other microorganisms present in the biofilter.
SU~IARY OF THE INVENTION
What is required is a method for inoculating a biofilter that results in an improved spatial distribution of the selected microorganisms.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for inoculating a biofilter. Firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor. Secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics. Thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms. Fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms. Fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of the selected microorganisms. Sixthly, spatially distributing the packing elements throughout an interior cavity of a biofilter housing.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a biofilter packing element which includes a rigid three dimensional structure. The structure has a first coating including an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorganisms. The structure also has a second coating including a cross-linking agent.
According to a final aspect of the present invention there is provided a biofilter that includes a housing with an interior cavity. Filter medium is disposed in the housing.
The filter medium includes a plurality of biofilter packing elements. Each of the packing elements includes a frame-like structure. The structure has a first coating including an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorgAn;s~.
The structure has a second coating including a cross-linking agent. The packing elements are spatially distributed throughout the interior cavity of the housing. It is preferred that the spatial distribution be random in order to provide a non-linear flow path through the interior cavity of the housing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings, wherein:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a biofilter packing element constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
FIGURE 2 is a top plan view of the biofilter packing element illustrated in FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 is a magnified cutaway view of the biofilter packing element illustrated in FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 4 is a biofilter constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, using a plurality of the packing elements illustrated in FIGURE 1.
DET~TT-~n DESCRIPTION OF THE ~KI5~ISKK~V EMBODIMENT
The preferred embodiment, a biofilter packing element generally identified by reference numeral 10, will now be described with reference to FIGURES 1 through 4.
Referring to FIGURE 1, biofilter packing element 10 includes a rigid three dimensional structure 12. Suitable rigid packing elements 10 are available through a variety of suppliers. The packing elements are selected in a geometric configuration which provides a maximum possible surface area per volume. Beneficial results have been obtained through the use of a biofilter packing element sold by FABCO PLASTICS of Toronto, Ontario under the Trademark PALL rings. Referring to FIGURE 2, PALL rings have a cylindrical frame-like structure, that has a plurality of internal cross-members 14. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, frame-like structure 12 is specially coated. Referring to FIGURE 3, frame-like structure 12 has a first coating 16 of an immobilizing agent impregnated with selected microorganisms 17.
Immobilizing agents are well known in the technical literature.
The particular immobilizing agent selected must be compatible with the viability of the selected microorganisms. In initial testing, the selected microorganism was Thiobacillus thiooxidans. Beneficial results were obtained when sodium alginate was used as the immobilizing agent. There are various alternative immobilizing agents which may be tested for viability with selected microorganisms, such as poly-acrylamide. Frame-like structure 12 also has a second coating 18 including a cross-linking agent. The cross-linking agent must also be compatible with the viability and activity of the selected microorganisms. In initial testing, beneficial results were obtained when aluminum nitrate was used. There are alternative cross-linking agents which may be tested for viability with selected microorganisms, such as calcium chloride. Any agent that is capable of chemically connecting one part of a molecule to an adjacent molecule to provide a cross-link may be used. The cross-linking agent penetrates the immobilizing agent cont~i n ing the selected microorganisms, providing rigidity to the coating and firmly entrapping the cells within the coating. Referring to FIGURE 4, a biofilter 20 is provided which includes a housing 22 with an interior cavity 24, in which is positioned filter medium in the form of a plurality of biofilter packing elements 10.
The method of use of biofilter packing elements 10 will now be described with reference to FIGUR~S 1 and 2. The method includes the following steps. Firstly, providing a plurality of untreated biofilter packing elements. Secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics. Cells for the selected microorganisms are grown in a liquid culture. The cells are then concentrated by centrifuging. Beneficial results have been obtained by centrifuging at 10,000 x G for 15 minutes. Thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms. The cells recovered by centrifuging are re-suspended in the immobilizing agent. In this case the immobilizing agent consisted of distilled water mixed with sodium alginate to form a 2% sodium alginate solution. The re-suspended cells in the immobilization agent should be only 10% of their original volume. Care must be taken in mixing the sodium alginate. It is preferable to divide the quantity of distilled water in half. The selected microorganisms are re-suspended in one half. Sodium alginate is slowly added to the other half. The sodium alginate is slightly hydrophobic. It will not mix well in water at first.
Care should be taken to add the sodium alginate as finely as possible to avoid the formation of large clumps. Large clumps 2l 86202 are difficult to hydrate. When all the sodium alginate has been added and is uniformly hydrated, the half containing the re-suspended selected microorganisms is added, and the two halves are mixed together. Fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms. In preparation for coating the PALL rings are treated in a 50%
dichromic acid glass cleaning solution for 24 hours. The dichromic acid prepares them for use by producing a rough surface so the coating will adhere better. At the end of the treatment period the PALL rings are washed with distilled water to remove all traces of dichromic acid. The PALL rings are then dipped into the microorganism cont~; n i ng immobilizing agent for a few seconds, and then removed. Fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-link;ng agent. The PALL
rings are placed into a bath of cross-linking agent, where they are left undisturbed for one hour. In initial testing O.lM
aluminum nitrate was used. Sixthly, spatially distributing biofilter packing elements 10 throughout interior cavity 24 of housing 22 of biofilter 20. Referring to FIGURE 4, biofilter 20 is filled with biofilter elements 10. Biofilter packing elements 10 are, preferably, randomly arranged in order to provide a non-linear flow through interior cavity of housing 22. The coatings of biofilter packing elements 10 must not dry at any time. To prevent drying, water saturated air is circulated through interior cavity 24 of housing 22 of biofilter 20. During operation of biofilter 20, it is continuously supplied with a water vapour saturated gas stream and nutrients appropriate for the selected microorganisms.
Care is taken during all steps to ensure that temperature of the microorganisms is controlled so as not to adversely effect their viability with excess heat.
The concentration of cells in the coatings on biofilter packing elements 10 is in excess of 1 x 108 per dry gram of coating. When the teachings of the present method as followed, there is an initial concentration that can reach its optimum operating capacity within days. It is preferred that the filter medium consist solely of biofilter packing elements 10.
This means that no peat moss, compost, soil, bark, etc of any kind is to be added to the filter medium. In order for packing elements 10 to work by themselves they must be rigid, so that they can support each other. When this teaching is followed there are no resident microorganisms with which the selected microorganisms must compete for space and nourishment.
When the teachings of the present method were employed in initial testing with volatile air emissions, it was determined that the initial high and specific microbial loading minimized the time for acclimation of the biofilter and allowed the biofilter to quickly move to optimum operating capacity. The process optimizes the occupation of available sites by selected microorganisms. It m; n;mi zes the volume of the reactor. The spatial arrangement allows maximum contact of the microorganisms with volatile air emissions.
It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the illustrated embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter defined in the Claims.
Claims (12)
1. A method for inoculating a biofilter, comprising the steps of:
firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor;
secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics;
thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms;
fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent containing the selected microorganisms, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms;
fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms; and sixthly, distributing the packing elements throughout an interior cavity of a biofilter housing.
firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor;
secondly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics;
thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms;
fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent containing the selected microorganisms, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms;
fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms; and sixthly, distributing the packing elements throughout an interior cavity of a biofilter housing.
2. The method as defined in Claim 1, wherein the immobilizing agent is sodium alginate.
3. The method as defined in Claim 1, wherein the immobilizing agent is poly-acrylamide
4. The method as defined in Claim 1, wherein the cross-linking agent is aluminum nitrate.
5. The method as defined in Claim 1, wherein the cross-linking agent is calcium chloride
6. A method for inoculating a biofilter, comprising the steps of:
firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor, the rigid packing elements having a geometric configuration which provides a maximum possible surface area per volume;
secondly, roughening the surface of the packing elements;
thirdly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics;
thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms;
fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent containing the selected microorganisms, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms;
fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms; and sixthly, distributing the packing elements randomly in an interior cavity of a biofilter housing such that a non-linear flow through the biofilter housing is achieved.
firstly, providing a plurality of rigid packing elements suitable for use in a packed bed reactor, the rigid packing elements having a geometric configuration which provides a maximum possible surface area per volume;
secondly, roughening the surface of the packing elements;
thirdly, selecting microorganisms with desired characteristics;
thirdly, immobilizing the selected microorganisms in a cell immobilizing agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms;
fourthly, coating the packing elements with the immobilizing agent containing the selected microorganisms, such that the packing elements become carriers of the selected microorganisms;
fifthly, coating the packing elements with a cross-linking agent compatible with the viability of said selected microorganisms; and sixthly, distributing the packing elements randomly in an interior cavity of a biofilter housing such that a non-linear flow through the biofilter housing is achieved.
7. A biofilter packing element, comprising:
a rigid three dimensional structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
a rigid three dimensional structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
8. The biofilter packing element as defined in Claim 7, wherein the three dimensional structure is a frame-like structure.
9. The biofilter packing element as defined in Claim 8, wherein the frame-like structure is a cylinder with a plurality of internal cross-members.
10. A biofilter packing element, comprising:
a cylindrical frame-like structure having a plurality of internal cross-members, the structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
a cylindrical frame-like structure having a plurality of internal cross-members, the structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
11. A biofilter, comprising:
a housing with an interior cavity;
filter medium disposed in the housing, the filter medium including a plurality of biofilter packing elements, each of which includes:
a rigid frame-like structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
the packing elements being distributed throughout the interior cavity of a housing.
a housing with an interior cavity;
filter medium disposed in the housing, the filter medium including a plurality of biofilter packing elements, each of which includes:
a rigid frame-like structure having a coating impregnated with selected microorganisms.
the packing elements being distributed throughout the interior cavity of a housing.
12. The biofilter as defined in Claim 11, wherein the filter medium consists solely of said biofilter packing elements distributed randomly throughout the interior cavity of the housing, thereby providing a non-linear flow pattern through the housing.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002186202A CA2186202A1 (en) | 1996-09-23 | 1996-09-23 | Method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002186202A CA2186202A1 (en) | 1996-09-23 | 1996-09-23 | Method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2186202A1 true CA2186202A1 (en) | 1998-03-24 |
Family
ID=4158951
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002186202A Abandoned CA2186202A1 (en) | 1996-09-23 | 1996-09-23 | Method and apparatus for inoculating a biofilter |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2186202A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1998051828A1 (en) * | 1997-05-16 | 1998-11-19 | Mbx Systems, Inc | Sulfide mineral concentrate bioleaching |
| WO2005030369A1 (en) | 2003-09-24 | 2005-04-07 | Söll Gmbh | Device for purifying exhaust gas or used air |
| US8222021B2 (en) | 2003-04-29 | 2012-07-17 | Ching-Ping Tseng | System and process for treating waste gas employing bio-treatment technology |
-
1996
- 1996-09-23 CA CA002186202A patent/CA2186202A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1998051828A1 (en) * | 1997-05-16 | 1998-11-19 | Mbx Systems, Inc | Sulfide mineral concentrate bioleaching |
| US6284530B1 (en) | 1997-05-16 | 2001-09-04 | Phillips Petroleum Company | Sulfide mineral concentrate bioleaching |
| US8222021B2 (en) | 2003-04-29 | 2012-07-17 | Ching-Ping Tseng | System and process for treating waste gas employing bio-treatment technology |
| WO2005030369A1 (en) | 2003-09-24 | 2005-04-07 | Söll Gmbh | Device for purifying exhaust gas or used air |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |