Selection of bioreactor media for odor control

Abstract

Support medium is one of the most critical elements of a bio filtration system. In this chapter, bio filters and bio trickling filters will be referred to as "bio filter", and this distinction will be discussed later in this chapter. The support mediums main function is to provide contact between the gas-phase contaminants and active microbial cultures either immobilized within and or attached as a bio film on the mediums surface. Other functions of the media are to distribute the gas flow evenly within the beds cross-sectional area, with minimal gas-phase pressure drop, distribute any liquid nutrients sprayed on the beds surface, and prevent accumulation of biomass to prevent clogging, which would eventually lead to channeling of the gas and liquid. Bio filter media can be classified based on their mass transfer mechanism, and then sub classified according to other characteristics, as listed below:1. Diffusive: contaminants diffuse toward and into the media perpendicular to the gas flow1.1 Naturally bioactive1.2 Synthetic1.2.1 Randomly packed1.2.1.1 Adsorbing1.2.1.2 Non-adsorbing1.2.2 Structured1.2.2.1 Adsorbing1.2.2.2 Non-adsorbing1.3 Synthetic encapsulating1.4 Membrane systems (flat sheet, hollow fibers)2. Convective: contaminants and gas flow through the bio film and media © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.