Biofilm formation on magnetic polystyrene particles

In this study, magnetic polystyrene particles were prepared by using a solvent evaporation technique. Particles 500-595 μm in size were used as a biofilm carrier in a fluidized bed for the biodegradation of an organic carbon source in wastewater. Activated sludge seeds were used as a mixed culture of microorganisms to obtain biofilms on the magnetic polystyrene particles. Fluidized bed experiments were performed at constant dissolved oxygen concentration, pH and temperature. The magnetic particles allowed operation of the column in a magnetic field at high liquid flow rates; hence, external diffusion limitations on biofilm surfaces were lowered. Biofilm formation on the suspended particles was quite successful and allowed effective removal of the substrate.