Sulphide management in anaerobic wastewater treatment systems: A review

Municipal wastewater often causes foul odor and causes economic loss due to corrosion, health and safety issues at the workplace, and environmental problems. The primary explanation for these findings is the work of microorganisms, specifically sulfate‐reducing bacteria, which are involved in sulfur reduction. In both aerobic and anaerobic processes, sulfur, a multivalent element, participates in intricate bioreactions. Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) generation is a major drawback for anaerobic treatment of municipal wastewater. H 2 S adversely affects process performance. Several chemical treatments under investigation include the addition of H 2 O 2 , FeCl 3 , oxygen, air, and KMnO 4 to control H 2 S emission. However, biological treatment is considered a more efficient and economical route to H 2 S control. This paper comprehensively reviews the formation, control, and removal of sulfide during anaerobic treatment of municipal wastewater. Methods of H 2 S prevention inside anaerobic reactors, methodology for processing biogas, and methods applicable for anaerobic effluent purification with key emphasis on H 2 S removal have been discussed. In addition, a new concept has been proposed to control sulfide production in anaerobic systems along with economic considerations.