Denitrification Studies

Denitrification is an essential process that occurs in anoxic environments where the concentration of dissolved and freely available oxygen is depleted. It is a process carried out by numerous genera of bacteria and can be used as an alternative to aerobic respiration. However, it can produce ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases that can have a considerable influence on global warming. Hence, better understanding the denitrification process’s dynamics can lead to improved wastewater treatment methods and reduce the leaking of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

At Hiden Analytical, we offer a MIMS method for simultaneously monitoring the consumption and production of gases involved in denitrification. Our method varies the concentrations of carbon, denitrifying bacteria, and nitrate/nitrite in sterile lake water microcosms to demonstrate how the dynamics of the denitrification pathway under nutrient-limited conditions are different from those found in a nutrient-rich medium.

Our MIMS method enables continuous real-time measurement of gases, enabling the investigation of the dynamics of the process. Our study identified that concentrations of 17 mmol/L nitrate and 10 mmol/L nitrite were optimal for denitrification under nutrient-limited conditions. Moreover, available carbon was the major rate-limiting factor in lakewater when nitrate or nitrite was present. No stratification of the process with depth was observed, and aerobic denitrification was apparent under all the conditions employed.

Our study results provide a better understanding of how process conditions affect the rate of denitrification. We aim to improve wastewater treatment methods and reduce the leaking of harmful gases into the atmosphere through our MIMS method. Contact us today to learn more about our denitrification studies and how we can help improve your wastewater treatment methods.