The effects of butyric acid on anaerobic digestion

Methane is one of the common biogas generated during the AD process. As methane is suitable for energy production, it is viewed widely as a renewable energy source. (Peter W. 2010) More in-depth studies of the energy potential in organic wastes have been observed in recent years, in particularly optimising the efficiency of biogas production and collection in small-scale AD treatment plants. (Greben and Oelofse, 2009)The project consists of batch studies on the effects of butyric acid on AD at different concentration for 28 days. The measured concentration of butyric acid were added into laboratory scale controlled bioreactor of 120mL serum bottles, which contain the recommended methanogenic medium inoculated with digested sludge retrieved from Ulu Pandan Wastewater Treatment plant as part of the bioreactor start-up ingredients. Butyric acid will serve as the sole external source of substrate for the bacteria during the AD.Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering