Modelling and optimization of processes for removal of dissolved heavy-metal compounds from drinking water by microbiological methods

Abstract

The results of laboratory modelling of microbiological removal of soluble compounds of Fe, Mn, and other heavy metals (Al, Cr, Zn, Co, Cu, Pb, Cd) with the use of a laboratory bioreactor. The results have shown that the main method of optimization of conditions facilitating the removal of dissolved metal compounds from drinking water consisted in creating and maintaining an oxygen aeration regime favorable for bacterial oxidation processes and, which is especially important, in preventing stagnancy in the sand filter of bioreactor during its shutoff. The latter was accompanied by an acceleration of bacterial reduction processes of precipitated heavy metals, resulting in their dissolution, hence secondary water pollution.