Biocatalytic treatment of waste air

Biological processes are becoming increasingly popular in dealing with waste air problems. Compared to chemical and physical treatment methods, they offer several advantages, especially in handling of waste air contaminated with low concentrations of biodegradable organic and, occasionally, inorganic substances. Two types of commercial systems are currently in use: biofilters and bioscrubbers. The aim of our studies was to develop an innovative concept of reactor design and engineering called “biocatalyst” (Biokatalysator). Our biocatalytic three-phase system lies in between the conventional biofilter and bioscrubber, using biomass immobilized on macroporous, tubiform supports installed in parallel to the air flow. In laboratory-scale investigations, a bioreactor was continuously fed with solvent-laden air, which produced a more cost-effective mode of operation than the conventional bioscrubber systems.