Biological Removal of High Concentration of Hydrogen Sulfide at Low Temperature in a Compost-Based Biofilter

ABSTRACT A laboratory scale biological purification system that removes hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in waste gas at low temperature condition from -1 to 10 °C was investigated for a continuous operation of 82 days. Good performance of the biological purification system was obtained, and the highest elimination capacity was 1214 g·m-3 ·h-1 at the inlet load of 1919 g·m-3 ·h-1. In the experimental period, pH of packing was maintained in the neutral range. The removal efficiency of H2S was not affected by the accumulation of sulfate and the consumption of nitrogen. The performance of the biological purification system was maintained in a high level and exhibited a strong long-term potential H2S removal capability in this 82 day.