Importance

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Abstract

This invention relates to improved methods, processes and apparatus for the removal of sulfides from a gas, liquid or solid (substance) wherein the substance is contacted with an aqueous solution. The instant invention presents methods and processes wherein at least one of H.sub.2S, SO.sub.2 and CS.sub.2 is chemically converted in an aqueous media to a salt and/or compound comprising sulfur and a cationic moiety. Said salt and/or compound comprising sulfur and a cationic moiety is herein termed a 'Sulfur Salt'. After formation of the Sulfur Salt, the Sulfur Salt is converted to elemental sulfur with a bacterium capable of metabolizing sulfur. The preferred bacterium for metabolizing sulfur is a strain from the genus Thiobacillus. The most preferred strain from the genus Thiobacillus is Thiobacillus denitrificans. The instant invention prefers an aqueous operating pH of between 6.0 and 8.0, while the most preferred aqueous pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.

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First Claim