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Removal of sulfur-containing organic molecules adsorbed on inorganic supports by Rhodococcus Rhodochrous spp.
Title Removal of sulfur-containing organic molecules adsorbed on inorganic supports by Rhodococcus Rhodochrous spp.
Authors Carvajal, P.; Dinamarca, A.; Baeza, P.; Camú, E.; Ojeda, J.
Journal Biotechnol Lett
DOI 10.1007/s10529-016-2240-y
Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To remove dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6-dimethyl-dibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT) adsorbed on alumina, silica and sepiolite through biodesulfurization (BDS) using Rhodococcus Rhodochrous spp., that selectively reduce sulfur molecules without generating of gaseous pollutants.

RESULTS: The adsorption of DBT and 4,6-DMDBT was affected by the properties of the supports, including particle size and the presence of surface acidic groups. The highest adsorption of both sulfur-containing organic molecules used particle sizes of 0.43-0.063 mm. The highest percentage removal was with sepiolite (80 % for DBT and 56 % for 4,6-DMDBT) and silica (71 % for DBT and 37 % for 4,6-DMDBT). This is attributed to the close interaction between these supports and the bacteria.

CONCLUSIONS: Biodesulfurization is effective for removing the sulfur-containing organic molecules adsorbed on inorganic materials and avoids the generation of gaseous pollutants.