Biological decolorization of textile dyestuff by Coriolus versicolor in a packed column reactor

Biological decolorization of textile dyestuff Everzol Turquoise Blue G, a p hthalocyanin type reactive dyestuff, by white-rot fungi Coriolus versicolor MUCL was studied in a packed column reactor. Decolorization performance of fungi immobilized on different support particles such as metal mesh, spong e, stone, wood ash, polyurethane and wood particles were investigated in sh ake flasks. Metal mesh particles was found to be superior to the other immo bilization matrices resulting in 97% decolorization efficiency. The packed column reactor containing fungi immobilized on metal mesh particles was ope rated in repealed-batch mode. The reactor was loaded 7 times with fresh col ored media in every 24 hours. The reactor was gently aerated by a diffuser from the bottom of the column. Environmental conditions were adjusted to T= 28 degrees C and pH= 4.5-5.0. TOC, glucose and dyestuff concentrations wer e determined throughout the experiments. During the course of repeated batc h operation, decolorization efficiency decreased from 99% to 50% in seven d ays. Operation of the reactor with 50-100-200 mg l(-1) feed dyestuff concen trations resulted in 50% decolorization and 80% TOC removal efficiency in s even days.