Biodegradation of tech-hexachlorocyclohexane in a upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor

Biodegradability of technical grade hexachlorocyclohexane (tech-HCH) was studied in an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor (UASB) under continuous mode of operation in concentration range of 100–200 mg/l and constant HRT of 48 h. At steady state operation more than 85% removal of tech-HCH (upto 175 mg/l concentration) and complete disappearance of β-HCH was observed. Kinetic constants in terms of maximum specific tech-HCH utilization rate (k) and half saturation velocity constant (KL) were found to be 11.88 mg/g/day and 8.11 mg/g/day, respectively. The tech-HCH degrading seed preparation, UASB reactor startup and degradation in continuous mode of operation of the reactor is presented in this paper.