Enhanced removal of hydrophobic volatile organic compounds in biofilters and biotrickling filters: A review on the use of surfactants and the addition of hydrophilic compounds. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lamprea Pineda, Paula Alejandra; Demeestere, Kristof; Toledo, Manuel; Van Langenhove, Herman; Walgraeve, Christophe
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 279(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Biofiltration -- VOCs -- Bioavailability -- Mass transfer limitation -- Kinetic limitation -- Surfactants -- Co-metabolism; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130757
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: The use of biological reactors to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from waste gas streams has proven to be a cost-effective and sustainable technique. However, hydrophobic VOCs exhibit low removal, mainly due to their limited bioavailability for the microorganisms. Different strategies to enhance their removal in bio(trickling)filters have been developed with promising results. In this review, two strategies, i.e. the use of surfactants and hydrophilic compounds, for enhancing the removal of hydrophobic VOCs in bio(trickling)filters are discussed. The complexity of the processes and mechanisms behind both strategies are addressed to fully understand and exploit their potential and rapid implementation at full-scale. Mass transfer and biological aspects are discussed for each strategy, and an in-depth comparison between studies carried out over the last two decades has been performed. This review identifies additional strategies to further improve the application of (bio)surfactants and/or hydrophilic VOCs, and it provides recommendations for future studies in this field. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Hydrophobic VOCs face the challenge to be less bioavailable. Surfactants can enhance the removal of hydrophobic VOCs and biomass accumulation. Feeding strategies of hydrophilic VOCs can improve biofilter performance. Mechanistic insights and real-time monitoring help improving biofilter design, operation and modeling.