Biodenitrification of Hanford groundwater and process effluents: FY 1988 Status Report

Abstract

Laboratory screening tests were performed to select microorganisms for their ability to destroy nitrates and carbon tetrachloride in Hanford groundwaters. The microorganisms were subsequently tested in bench-scale experiments to determine the fundamental kinetic constants for denitrification with acetate. The microorganisms were also used as the inoculum for the pilot-scale bioreactor system, which was designed, constructed, and operated in FY 1988. The bench-scale denitrification kinetic data were analyzed using two rate models. The best fit was obtained using a first-order expression. The kinetic constants determined in the bench-scale experiments were later used to set operating parameters for the pilot-scale bioreactor test. The pilot-scale bioreactor system consisted of a 50-L continuous-stirred tank bioreactor, a 280-L clarifier, associated feed components, and a data acquisition and control system. The pilot plant was designed as a module for ease of installation and to facilitate relocation for on-site demonstration testing. The pilot-scale bioreactor was installed and operated in FY 1988, but steady-state operating data are not yet available. Preliminary denitrification data show destruction of nitrate to concentrations less than drinking water standards. A preliminary engineering evaluation was also completed in FY 1988 that examined the engineering feasibility of biodenitrification for the UO{sub 3} Plant process condensatemore » through microorganism laboratory testing, development of flowsheets, and equipment size and cost estimates. 15 refs., 16 figs., 8 tabs. « less

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