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Performance evaluation of Malathion biodegradation in batch and continuous packed bed bioreactor (PBBR)
S R Geed1, M K Kureel1, B S Giri1
1Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221 005, India.
Bioresource Technology
|December 26, 2016
Summary
This study demonstrates effective Malathion biodegradation using packed bed bioreactors (PBBRs), achieving over 90% removal. The research identifies key metabolites and kinetic models for optimizing pesticide degradation processes.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Bioremediation Engineering
Background:
- Malathion is a widely used organophosphate insecticide with significant environmental persistence.
- Effective biodegradation strategies are crucial for mitigating Malathion contamination in water bodies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biodegradation efficiency of Malathion in batch and continuous packed bed bioreactors (PBBRs) utilizing Polyurethane foam (PUF).
- To analyze Malathion removal kinetics and identify biodegradation metabolites under various operational conditions.
Main Methods:
- Batch and continuous PBBR experiments were conducted to assess Malathion removal.
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) was employed for metabolite identification.
- Monod and Andrew-Haldane models were utilized to determine biodegradation kinetic constants.
Main Results:
- Batch PBBR achieved 89% Malathion removal within 10 days.
- Continuous PBBR demonstrated over 90% removal efficiency at steady-state conditions over 75 days.
- Key metabolites identified include phosphorodithionicacid, O,O,S-trimethylester and diethylmercaptosuccinate.
Conclusions:
- Packed bed bioreactors are highly effective for Malathion biodegradation.
- Kinetic modeling provides valuable insights for optimizing bioreactor performance in pesticide removal.
