Volatile fatty acids production from biowaste at mechanical-biological treatment plants: Focusing on fermentation temperature

The impact of temperature (20, 35, 45, 55, 70 degrees C) on volatile fatty acid (VFA) production from biowaste collected at a mechanical-biological treatment plant was analysed. Additionally, relevant streams of the treatment plant were characterised to assess seasonality effects and conceive the integration of a fermentation unit. Batch fermentation tests at 35 degrees C showed the highest VFA yields (0.49-0.59 gCOD(V)(FA)/gVS). The VFA yield at 35 degrees C was 2%, 6%, 10% and 14% higher than at 55, 45, 20 and 70 degrees C, respectively. The VFA profile was not affected by the fermentation temperature nor seasonality and was dominated by acetic, propionic and butyric acid (75-86% CODVFA). The concentration of non-VFA soluble COD and ammoniacal nitrogen in the fermentation liquor increased with temperature. The fermentation unit in the treatment plant was conceived after the pulper and hydrocyclones and before the anaerobic digester, while the fermenter temperature depends on the VFA application.