Biodegradation of phenol with immobilized <i>Pseuodomonas putida</i> activated carbon packed bio-filter tower

Abstract

Comparative study on adsorption and simultaneous adsorption and biodegradation (SAB) of phenol using Pseuodomonas putida (MTCC 1194) in a biofilter tower packed with fresh granular activated carbon (GAC) or biological activated carbon (BAC) showed 37% higher breakthrough point in case of SAB. Maximum phenol degradation rate in case of SAB was 120 mg/L.h obtained at flow rate of 7.42 ml/min. Bioregeneration of bed material up to 63% was achieved in 12 h. The phenol degradation by P. putida (MTCC 1194) was immobilized on activated carbon. Higher surface area of activated carbon is suited as supporting materials for microorganism and shows a high adsorptive capacity for phenol. For biodegradation of phenol by P. putida at shake flask level Haldane's growth model fitted the best. Compared to GAC, 21% higher removal of phenol was observed in case of SAB in batch mode.

Key words: Biologically activated carbon, bioregeneration, phenol, Pseudomonas putida.