Biotrickling filter modeling for styrene abatement. Part 2: Simulating a two-phase partitioning bioreactor

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Styrene abatement is crucial for industrial emissions control.
• Biotrickling filters (BTFs) are effective but can be limited by mass transfer.
• Two-phase partitioning bioreactors (TPPB) offer enhanced pollutant solubilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a dynamic model for styrene abatement in a TPPB-BTF.
• To investigate the impact of a water-silicone liquid mixture on styrene mass transfer.
• To assess the potential of TPPB-BTF for improved styrene removal efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A dynamic model using partial differential equations was developed for TPPB-BTF operation.
• The model considered gas, water-silicone mixture, and biofilm phases.
• Model calibration focused on styrene physical properties (Henry's law constant, diffusivity) and mass transfer coefficients.

Main Results:

• The model achieved a high goodness of fit (0.94) and accurately simulated TPPB-BTF performance across various styrene loads.
• Sensitivity analysis identified Henry's law constant as the most influential parameter.
• Simulations indicated a 1.6-fold enhancement in mass transfer with silicone oil addition.

Conclusions:

• The developed dynamic model accurately predicts styrene abatement in TPPB-BTF.
• Adding silicone oil to BTFs significantly enhances styrene mass transfer and removal.
• TPPB-BTF technology shows promise for efficient industrial styrene emission control.