Mathematical Modeling of H2S Removal in a Bio-Filter

In this study, A mathematical model has been developed for H2S removal in a bio-filter. The model is used for analyzing the bio-filter performance in steady and unsteady state operation conditions. The governing equations including the concentration distribution equations for pollutant component and oxygen in the gas and biofilm phases were derived based on the conservation laws and solved numerically. The change of pollutant concentration through the bio-filter length and bio film thickness was obtained. The model predictions for removal efficiency and elimination capacity in three different gas flow rates (0.03, 0.07 and 0.14 m3/hr) and different inlet concentrations, compared with the experimental data reported by Oyarzun et al., and the accuracy of the model results was obtained. Also the results of the model for unsteady state operation condition were obtained for 1100 ppm of inlet concentration of H2S. These values compared with the existing experimental data too. Finally the effect of some operation parameters such as: specific surface area of the bed, height of the bed, porosity of the bed and gas flow rate, on the removal efficiency of bio-filter was investigated.