Bio-oxidation of H₂S by Sulfolobus metallicus

Sulfolobus metallicus is a hyperthermophilic and chemolithoautotrophic archaeon that uses elemental sulfur as an energy source. Its ability to oxidize H₂S was measured either in the presence or absence of elemental sulphur, showing its ability for using both as an energy source. A biotrickling filter was set up and a biofilm of S. metallicus was established over the support. The maximum removal capacity of the biotrickling filter reached at 55°C was 40 g S/m³h for input loads higher than 70 g S/m³h. Thus, S. metallicus can be used in a biofiltration system for the treatment of waste gas emissions at high temperatures contaminated with H₂S.