Abstract
The ultimate biodegration of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) in the act ivated sludge process has been studied using the 14C ring-labeled LAS. By using the methylene blue method and the tracer method, primary degradation and benzene ring degradation were evaluated respectively. In batch experiments, 30-40% of ring carbon was converted to carbon dioxide after 24 hrs' aeration in the acclimated system, but only 2-10% in the unacclimated system. 14CO2 evolution and primary degradation proceeded simultaneously, but the rate of 14CO2 evolution was slow. In 24 hrs, primary degradation proceeded completely, 46-52% of ring carbon remained in the sludge and 14-18% in the solution in the acclimated system. 14CO2 evolution rate was affected by addition of glucose and initial concentration of LAS. This study shows the biodegradation mechanism of LAS in the activated sludge process.
