The chemistry of reduced sulfur species and their removal from groundwater supplies

Abstract

The removal of hydrogen sulfide from groundwater supplies was investigated by using various catalysts and oxidants in bench‐scale jar tests that simulated assumed actual conditions in a water treatment plant. Variations in aeration rate, chemical dosage, recycled solids, pH, and detention time were also examined. A ferrous sulfate dosage of 9 mg/L reduced sulfide concentrations to 0.05 mg/L, largely owing to the catalytic effect of Fe(II). Peroxide, permanganate, and ferrate also lowered the sulfide concentrations, with more rapid kinetics than Fe(II). An economic analysis showed that Fe(II) is a cost‐effective alternative for sulfide removal. The other oxidants may also prove economical under certain conditions.