Demineralization of phenol derivatives using sequential adsorption and biological degradation process

The present investigation was undertaken to assess the degradation of phenol derivatives by sequential adsorption and biological process. Phenols and their derivatives are recognized toxic compounds and known for their carcinogenic and other toxic properties even in trace quantity. Biological treatment is considered more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in comparison with physicochemical treatment. However, the process is less effective for high concentration pollutants. Activated carbons, prepared from Jatropha having micropore size under 125 microns, have been used to carry out the adsorption of Phenol and Chlorophenol in aqueous solution. Observations revealed that the rate of phenol biodegradation was increased because of pretreatment, i.e., adsorption, temperature and glucose concentration. The optimal conditions for Phenol and CP removal were found to be temperature 350C (58-65% removal) and two gpl glucose levels (70-78% removal). The importance of the study is the pretreatment of recalcitrant chemicals with adsorption followed by biodegradation and thus provided with an alternative bioremediation approach.