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Biodegradation of 2,4-dinitrotoluene in a two stage system

Conference ·
OSTI ID:82810
; ;  [1];  [2]
  1. Univ. of Cincinnati, OH (United States). Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  2. Army Construction Engineering Research Labs., Champaign, IL (United States)

An anaerobic/anoxic fluidized-bed GAC bioreactor in series with an activated sludge reactor was used to treat 2,4-Dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT). A Simulated high strength wastewater solution of 2,4-DNT, ethanol, and ethyl ether as well as carbonate buffer and nutrient solutions were fed to the anaerobic/anoxic reactor. The environment in the fluidized-bed reactor was varied to determine its effect on 2,4-DNT biodegradation. The effluent from this reactor was treated further in an activated sludge system. Methanogenic operation of the fluidized-bed resulted in stoichiometric transformation of 2,4-DNT to 2,4-diaminotoluene (2,4-DAT). The 2,4-DAT was completely mineralized by the activated sludge. The system failed to transform the 2,4-DNT under anaerobic conditions without addition of a primary substrate. The effects of operating the first stage under nitrate reducing conditions with a primary substrate is currently being investigated.

OSTI ID:
82810
Report Number(s):
CONF-940789--; ISBN 0-7844-0031-8
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English