Regeneration of liquid redox systems using Thiobacillus ferrooxidans

摘要

In the removal of hydrogen sulfide from a gas stream by use of a liquid catalyst containing ferric ions, the ferric ions of the liquid catalyst are converted to ferrous ions. Regeneration of the ferric ions can be accomplished by bubbling air through the liquid catalyst. A significant decrease in regeneration time for transforming the ferrous ions back to the original ferric ion state can occur when a culture of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans bacteria is introduced to the liquid catalyst. Optimization indicates a pH range between 6.0 and 9.0, a temperature between 20 C. and 45 C. and a cell concentration of 12.5. times. 10.sup.8 cells per liter.