Dynamics of a linked supercritical extraction-biodegradation process for organic wastes

The feasibility of combining two technologies with different advantages and operating dynamics for the removal and destruction of organic contaminants from solid wastes has been investigated. Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is efficient for separating and concentrating contaminants and biodegradation is efficient at destroying contaminants. Through a linked approach, we hope to capture the advantages of both processes. This paper presents results on the use of a combined SFE/absorption system to control the concentration of contaminant in an aqueous feed stream to a bioreactor as well as results on the response of the bacterium Pseudomonas Putida to gradient increases in phenol concentration in the feed. Finally, an experimental demonstration of the linked system is reported.