Efficiency of Bacillus thuringiensis biofilters on 17β-estradiol removal

Abstract

This study evaluated the potential of Bacillus thuringiensis biofilters and natural substrates for removal of the natural estrogen 17β-estradiol (E2) in aqueous solutions. Filters biologically activated with this bacterium and containing rice husk ash (RHA) or activated carbon (AC) were monitored for 20 days for biofilm formation. In all samples, E2 was quantified by SPE (solid phase extraction) and LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry). The results showed 83% removal for the biofilter containing RHA and 86% for AC, indicating the potential of the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis to biodegrade E2. This study demonstrated that biofiltration can be a method used for E2 removal.