Optimization of Influencing Factors on Biomass Accumulation and 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA) Yield in Rhodobacter sphaeroides Wastewater Treatment

This study aimed to optimize four factors affecting biomass accumulation and 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) yield together with pollutants removal in Rhodobacter sphaeroides wastewater treatment. Results showed that it was feasible to produce biomass and ALA in R. sphaeroides wastewater treatment. Microaerobic, 1,000-3,000 lux, and pH 7.0 were optimal conditions for the highest ALA yield of 4.5 ± 0.5 mg/g-biomass. Under these conditions, COD removal and biomass production rate were 93.3 ± 0.9% and 31.8 ± 0.5 mg/l/h, respectively. In addition, trace elements Fe(2+), Mg(2+), Ni(2+), and Zn(2+) further improved the ALA yield, COD removal, and biomass production rate. Specifically, the highest ALA yield (12.5 ± 0.6 mg/g-biomass) was achieved with Fe(2+) addition.