Removal of Acetone from Contaminated Air in Biofilter using Pseudomonas putida

Abstract

2 Abstract: Removal of acetone from polluted air was investigated using a biofilter. An active biofilm of Pseudomonas putida was used for the biodegradation of acetone in a column packed with walnut shell as biofilter. In continuous mode of operation, the effects of acetone concentration (50 to 200g/l) and inlet air temperature (25 to 55°C) on acetone removal efficiency were investigated. Maximum acetone removal efficiency of 80.5 percent was achieved, with acetone concentration of 50g/l. While acetone concentration increased to 200g/l, the removal efficiency dropped to 42 percent. The temperature variations from 25 to 55°C did not significantly influence the removal efficiency of acetone from the air stream. However, at high temperature acetone removal duration was shortened. A growth model for P. putida, based on acetone biodegradation was developed.