Abstract
The conventional deep desulfurization must be followed by a suitable desulfurization process to achieve ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) with 10–15 ppm sulfur level which satisfies the strict environmental regulations. Bio‐desulfurization is one of the potential routes for the above mentioned purpose. In this present investigation our major concern is production of Ultra Low sulfur diesel (ULSD) and production of biosurfactant simultaneously using Rhodococcus sp. The substituted benzothiophenes (BTs) and dibenzothiophenes (DBTs) get converted to 2‐hydroxy biphenyl, which is a potential bio‐surfactant. Kinetics of biodesulfurisation of deep desulfurized diesel using Rhodococcus sp. has been studied with special reference to removal of organo‐sulfur compounds in diesel and production of 2‐hydroxy biphenyl. The sulfur concentration of feed diesel is in the range of 200–540 mg/L. Aqueous phase to diesel ratios have been varied in the range of 9:1 to 1:9. The optimum ratio has been found to be 1:4 and the maximum conversion of sulfur of 95% has been achieved. The values of Monod kinetic parameters, μmax, maximum specific growth rate and Ks, saturation constant of the microbial growth and Yield coefficient of surfactant have been measured to be 0.096 h−1, 71 mg/L, and 17 μmol/g dry cell weights respectively by conducting batch type experiments. A deterministic mathematical model has been developed using the kinetic parameters and the experimental data have been compared with simulated ones satisfactorily.
Published Version
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