Optimization of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) degradation in UASB reactors by varying bioavailability of LAS, hydraulic retention time and specific organic load rate

- The degradation of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) was evaluated in seven UASB reactors.
- The bioavailability of LAS, hydraulic retention time (HRT) and co-substrates concentration were varied.
- At a low concentration of co-substrates, the LAS degradation rate was the highest.
- At a HRT of 80 h, the degradation of LAS was limited by a lowered LAS loading rate.
- Increasing the LAS bioavailability resulted in discrete change in the degradation rate.