The Microbiology of Anaerobic Digesters

by Michael H. Gerardi

A comprehensive guide to understanding the biology and biological conditions of the treatment process!

The Microbiology of Anaerobic Digesters provides an in-depth review of the bacteria, their activity, and the operational conditions that affect anaerobic digester performance. Avoiding the technical jargon, chemical equations, and kinetics that typically accompany such texts, this comprehensive resource also discusses troubleshooting and process control measures that will allow you to maintain treatment efficiency, prevent system upsets, and reduce operational costs.

Prepared for an audience of operators and technicians who are responsible for the daily operation of anaerobic digesters, The Microbiology of Anaerobic Digesters covers important issues in this field, including:

• Substrates, products, and biogas
• Operational conditions, including nutrients, temperature, and alkalinity
• Process controls and troubleshooting
• Types of digesters

The Microbiology of Anaerobic Digesters will introduce readers to this important topic and provide them with the necessary information for understanding biological conditions of this treatment process.

Contents

1. Overview
   1. Introduction.
   2. Bacteria.
   3. Methane-forming Bacteria.
   4. Respiration.
   5. Anaerobic Food Chain.
   6. Fermentation.
   7. Anaerobic Digestion Steps.

2. Substrates, Products and Biogas
   8. Substrates and Products.
   9. Biogas.

3. Operational Conditions
   10. Introduction to Operational Conditions.
   11. Start-up.
   12. Sludge Feed.
   13. Retention Times.
   14. Temperature.
   15. Nutrients.
   16. Alkalinity and pH.
   17. Toxicity.
   18. Mixing.

4. Process Control and Troubleshooting
   19. Upsets and Unstable Digesters.
   20. Foam and Scum Production and Accumulation.
   21. Supernatant.
   22. Monitoring.

5. Digesters
   23. Types of Anaerobic Digesters.
   24. Anaerobic Digesters verses Aerobic Digesters

Abbreviations and Acronyms
Chemical Compounds and Elements
Glossary
Index

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