Biotrickling Filter to Treat High Strength Hydrogen Sulfide Emissions

A pilot-scale biotrickling filter was installed at the Abess Boulevard pump station in Jacksonville, FL to treat odorous emissions. The biotrickling filter system, utilizing Shaw Environmental's FlexFil Media, removes high strength H2S and other reduced sulfur compounds from air streams. The biotrickling filter (or BioTower) consists of a fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) media chamber, a control panel, a blower, a water circulation pump and a nutrient addition system. The performance of the reactor was continuously monitored over a period of 18 months. The system was operated at various empty bed retention times from 6 to 30 seconds and inlet H2S concentrations of 300 to 1,000 ppmv. Consistent H2S removal efficiencies of greater than 99% were achieved, corresponding to a maximum sulfur elimination capacity of 300 g-S/m3. hr. The successful experience has lead to the purchase of a commercial unit to replace the existing chemical scrubber, which results in a more efficient odor control system plus at least $100,000/year savings in chemicals. The pilot unit was installed in December 2005 and has continuously operated since then. This paper describes the findings of the test of this pilot system.