A steady-state pH-control model for the biological production of elemental sulfur from sulfate in mining-influenced water

We developed a model to predict pH, alkalinity, and the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) in coupled systems of hydrogen-based autotrophic sulfate reduction and aerobic oxidation of sulfide to elemental sulfur. To neutralize the biologically generated base, the model allows for the addition of CO₂ as part of the gas mixture, the independent addition of HCl or CO₂, or a combination of the alternatives. The model was evaluated against the results from a laboratory system for the production of elemental sulfur from sulfate present in mine-tailings water, which is characterized by the presence of elevated sulfate and calcium concentrations. Model results were consistent with measurements of pH, alkalinity, and LSI. The model showed how the acid demands of the coupled reactors vary with pH, being approximately equivalent at pH over 8, when ionized sulfide predominates. Also, while the sulfidogenic reactor was well buffered due to the production of ionized sulfide, the sulfidotrophic reactor in the absence of sulfide and carbonate alkalinity was prone to pH declines. Considering that both reactors operated in the positive range of LSI, the model also indicated that addition of CO₂ should be minimized due to increase in the bicarbonate concentration and its effect on increasing the LSI. Furthermore, the model also showed that exclusive reliance on HCl for pH control can be incompatible with Cl⁻ effluent standards, which means that a compromise must be reached between CO₂ and HCl additions.