Simulation Studies on Transient Model for Biofilter operated in Periodic Mode

Abstract

Biofiltration of off-gases containing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) is a reliable and cost effective technology for VOCs removal. Due to many inherent advantages, most of the industries operate biofilters under the periodic conditions (highly transient). Taking the importance of such operation into account, a model is developed based on the transient conditions. In this study, a Linear Driving Force (LDF) model is used, which takes into account both mechanisms (adsorption and biodegradation) involved in biofiltration process. The rate equation is given by the modified three-parameter Monod-type expression. The results obtained from the present model are validated with the experimental data and the results obtained from earlier model reported in the literature. The simulations are also carried out to understand the influence of various important parameters such as inlet VOCs concentrations, bed height and gas velocity on the biofiltration process operated in the periodic mode.