This paper summarizes a literature review on biofiltration and its capabilities for removing volatile organic compounds and inorganic pollutants from air. Biofiltration is an air pollution control technology that uses microorganisms to transform oxidizable vapors and gases into mostly innocuous end products. The reliance on microorganisms requires an appreciation of ecological principles and an understanding of microbial growth. Most biofilters treat air before it is exhausted to the atmosphere. Many of these systems have removal efficiencies greater than 90%. Biofiltration is cost competitive for removing biodegradable compounds at low concentrations. Costs increase as compound concentrations increase and treatability decreases. Potential occupational and public health aspects of biofiltration warrant further investigation. Biofiltration has been used as an air pollution control technology in numerous industries, including chemical, plastics, manufacturing, paper, food, wastewater treatment, and agricultural. Additional research is needed before considering its use for general air cleaning and removal of nonspecific contaminants.

Units: Dual