What is it about?
In this article, we share the results of a study in which we installed and tested a biological system to clean polluted air in a sulphur mine in Poland. The air released during the mining process contains toxic and foul-smelling gases, such as hydrogen sulphide and volatile organic compounds. To address this problem, we used a type of bioreactor (CTBB) containing bacteria capable of ‘eating’ these pollutants and transforming them into harmless substances. We tested this system under real conditions for several months, and it worked very effectively, eliminating more than 90% of harmful gases most of the time. Our goal with this work was to demonstrate that it is possible to use natural, sustainable, and efficient solutions to reduce air pollution in industrial environments without generating hazardous waste or side effects.
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Why is it important?
This research is important because it demonstrates that it is possible to clean polluted air in industrial environments using an efficient, economical, and sustainable biological system. What makes it unique is that it was applied directly in an operating sulphur mine, using bacteria adapted to the environment to eliminate toxic gases without resorting to chemicals or generating hazardous waste. Its distinctive approach lies in combining applied science with real operating conditions, something uncommon in this type of study. The value proposition is to offer a compact, replicable and low environmental impact solution that can improve air quality and public health in highly polluting industrial sectors.
Perspectives
For me, this publication represents much more than a scientific result: it is a clear example of how applied research can generate real solutions to complex environmental problems. Having worked directly in industrial conditions, facing technical and logistical challenges in an active mine, allowed me to understand the value of adapting science to the field. I am proud to have contributed to a proposal that is not only technically sound, but also consistent with principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility. I hope this work inspires more researchers and industries to embrace biological and collaborative approaches to pollution management.
Dr. Ramon Fernando Colmenares Quintero
Fundación Berstic and Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Performance of a CTBB bioreactor for the treatment of waste gas: A case study from a sulfur mine in Poland, Desalination and Water Treatment, April 2025, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.dwt.2025.101176.
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