Phenol and Benzene Removal in Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors- A Review of Operating Data From Two Full Scale Refineries

Phenol and benzene are aromatic compounds commonly found in wastewater from oil refining, petrochemical, coal-coking and coal gasification processes. Although their concentrations and contributions to the overall chemical oxygen demand are generally low, some discharge permits impose very low limits for these compounds (in the low μg/l range). Sampling campaigns were conducted at two full scale refinery MBBR-plants while phenol and benzene removal was also studied in laboratory models of the MBBR-processes, as a function of organic loading rates. The data collected show the MBBR process can effectively treat refinery effluent and achieve the low phenol and benzene concentrations required and thus provides a reliable alternative to conventional activated sludge, especially where footprint and modularization of treatment equipment are important.