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1.3. Activation of the Biofilter

1.3.2.B The Nitrification Process

In the following step we will discuss the transformation of the ammonium to nitrite in the nitrification process.

NH3 NH4+ NO2 NO3-

This is the first step in the nitrification process which is performed by bacteria (Nitrosomonas) that can convert energy from the oxidation of the ammonium-ion to the nitrite ion following the reaction : NH4+ + 2O2 -> NO-2 + 2H2O + 2H+ + 275 kJ energy

The liberated energy is used in cell metabolism and maintenance. Nitrite is the intermediate product of the nitrification process which is also very toxic and needs to be oxidized as soon as possible.

NH3 NH4+ NO2 NO3-

This last action in the nitrification process is taken over by another group of bacteria (Nitrobacter)
following the reaction: 2NO2- + O2 2NO3- + 75 kJ energy



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