Parameters for the operation of bacterial thiosalt oxidation ponds.

Shake flask and pH-controlled reactor tests were used to determine the mathematical parameters for a mixed-culture bacterial thiosalt treatment pond. Values determined were as follows: K(m) and V(max) (thiosulfate), 9.83 g/liter and 243.9 mg/liter per h, respectively; K(i) (lead), 3.17 mg/liter; K(i) (copper), 1.27 mg/liter; Q(10) between 10 and 30 degrees C, 1.95. From these parameters, the required bioxidation pond volume and residence time could be calculated. Soluble zinc (0.2 g/liter) and particulate mill products and by-products (0.25 g/liter) were not inhibitory. Correlation with an operating thiosalt biooxidation pond showed the parameters used to be valid for thiosalt concentrations up to at least 2 g/liter, lead concentrations of at least 10 mg/liter, and temperatures of >2 degrees C.