Water flush boosts performance of elemental sulfur-based denitrification packed-bed systems: Optimization and mechanisms

Despite the promising potential of elemental sulfur-based denitrification (ESDeN) packed-bed progresses, challenges such as excessive biofilm growth and gas entrapment persist, leading to denitrification deterioration. Water flush (WF) is recognized as an effective strategy, yet its effects remain underexplored. To address this knowledge gap, this study systematically investigated WF effects on ESDeN packed-bed denitrification. Results demonstrated that controlling WF effectively regulated denitrification, achieving superior and stable rates. Compared to no WF (0.45 kgN center dot m- 3 center dot d- 1), rates improved by 1.20 1.56 times under low-frequency (weekly WF, 0.54 kgN center dot m- 3 center dot d- 1) and low-intensity WF (0.54 0.70 kgN center dot m- 3 center dot d- 1). High-frequency (hours WF) and highintensity WF (30 & 50 m/h) further amplified denitrification rates by 1.73 2.29 times. The enhanced denitrifications under low-frequency/intensity WF were mainly attributed to prolonged actual hydraulic retention time (AHRT), while high-frequency/intensity WF improved both AHRT prolonging and biofilm thinning, facilitating mass transfer. This study offers a promising avenue for fine-tuning denitrification rates via strategic WF adjustments.