MICROBIAL DESULFURIZTION OF BALOCHISTAN COAL BY USING MUTANT PSEUDOMONAS Sp. (ATCC No 39381)

Sulfur compounds present in coal impose severe limitations on its utilization since sulfur-containing gases emitted into the atmosphere upon direct combustion of coal cause serious environmental pollution. The effects of particle size on the rate of sulfur removal have been extensively studied. Bio-desulfurisation experiments were carried out on samples collected from Sor-Range Coal Run of Mine by using optimum growth conditions of Pseudomonas sp. (ATCC 39381), a novel mutant microorganism, produced by chemical mutagenesis with its effectiveness in removing organic sulfur compounds from coal, petroleum and petroleum products.  Eight (8) sets of samples with different composition based on particle size (mesh size), slurry composition, bacterial concentration and autoclaving were tested throughout the experiment. Autoclaved coal samples showed effective results as compared to those which were not. The highest decrease in the total Sulfur content was observed at 23.93% with samples having composition of 40 mesh, autoclaved and with optimum incubation time of 120 hours, respectively. Increased desulfurization rates were observed with smaller particle sizes whereas, 40 mesh size coal was found very effective during leaching process as compared to 20 mesh size coal. It was further observed that a longer incubation time resulted in higher reduction rates of sulfur. Furthermore, the autoclaved samples had a direct impact on the removal of sulfur, whereas, Ash contents was another factor reduced during the process. Highest decrease of 52.97% was observed for the sample having mesh particle size, autoclaved and having incubation time of total 120 hours. Environmental conditions and major process variables affecting the process performance are identified and their possible effects have been discussed. Download Full Paper