Nitrification at cold temperatures in a biostyr reactor

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The objective of the project is to demonstrate that Biological Aerated Filtration (BAF) treatment systems that operate as immersed biofilters are capable of significant nitrification at cold temperatures representative of Canadian climates. The research addresses a critical need to improve our ability to treat wastewaters that contain the toxic contaminant ammonia under extreme environmental conditions such as those experienced in Canada. We propose to conduct a series of carefully planned and executed laboratory experiments using bench-top BAF systems followed by a set of pilot-scale experiments conducted at a Quebec treatment facility. The proposed research involves the use of several state-of-the-art techniques for the characterization of biofilm in the reactor systems (e.g., confocal laser scanning microscopy, fluorescence in-situ hybridization, scanning electron microscopy). Determining the potential of the BAF system for nitrification of contaminated wastewaters at low temperatures will be of significant value to the partner organization, John Meunier Inc. The technical information obtained as a result of this research will provide JMI with the means to evaluate the potential to increase their target market for their technology. Our results will also contribute to the general body of knowledge in the areas of (i) nitrifying biofilms, (ii) wastewater treatment and (iii) nitrification at cold temperatures.