The Effect of Carbon Monoxide and Methane on the Oxidation of Ferrous Iron by Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans

The impact of carbon monoxide and methane on ferrous iron biooxidation by Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans was studied. A variety of concentrations of each gas was added to the headspace in equilibrium with the growth medium of the bacterium. The effects of carbon monoxide and methane were compared to parallel control samples. Results showed no inhibition caused by either gas. Not recognized before, this occurrence can be best explained by the variability and adaptability of Thiobacilli. This outcome is advantageous for the inclusion of At. ferrooxidans in applications such as removal of hydrogen sulfide from waste gas streams or others where residual carbon monoxide or methane may linger.