An integrated approach to investigate the simultaneous recovery of volatile fatty acids and phosphorus from sewage sludge through anaerobic fermentation

Liu, Yong-Qiang and Pincam, Tararag (2024) An integrated approach to investigate the simultaneous recovery of volatile fatty acids and phosphorus from sewage sludge through anaerobic fermentation. In 32nd European Biomass Conference & Exhibition 24-27 June 2024.

Record type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)

Abstract

Sewage sludge represents a significant biomass source for valuable products such as volatile fatty acids (VFA) and fertilisers. To address the limitations of fragmented research in this field, this study aims to employ an integrated approach, investigating in-situ simultaneous sludge treatment and fermentation. This approach considers prior biological wastewater treatment processes to maximize VFA production and phosphate production. 5 types of sludge including waste activated sludge and sewage sludge from three processes were analysed and compared. Subsequently, an in-situ combined thermal and alkaline sludge treatment at 50°C and a pH of 9 was implemented to enhance sludge hydrolysis. The results showed that the biological treatment process had a significant impact on VFA production and phosphate release from sewage sludge. The combined thermal and alkaline treatment of sludge resulted in underperformed VFA and phosphate production, but demonstrated a greater selectivity for acetic acid production. Therefore, it can be concluded that an integrated approach would be more appropriate for studying the simultaneous recovery of VFA and phosphorus.

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