Filler Selection and Restart Performance Evaluation of Biotrickling Filters for Hydrogen Sulfide Absorption

This article uses a biotrickling filter (BTF) to absorb the odor gas hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Firstly, the activated sludge was acclimated to cultivate sulfur-oxidizing bacteria as the dominant microbial group, and then the acclimated sulfur-oxidizing bacteria were attached to the BTF filler. Suitable filler were selected among bark, volcanic rock, and polyethylene hollow balls based on H2S removal rate and biofilm formation as evaluation criteria. The BTF was subjected to a starvation treatment to assess its rapid start-up capability. The experimental results showed that when volumetric mixtures such as bark and volcanic rock were used as biofilm fillera for the BTF, it exhibited high H2S removal rate, low susceptibility to clogging, and practicality, with an H2S removal rate of up to 96%. After 15 days of idle period, the BTF resumed efficient operation on the 7th day after restart, demonstrating its fast start-up and strong shock resistance. These findings provide reference for the practical application of BTF in H2S removal processes.