On-line monitoring of anaerobic digestion: application of a device for continuous measurement of bicarbonate alkalinity

Author:

Hawkes Freda R.1,Guwy Alan J.1,Hawkes Dennis L.2,Rozzi Alberto G.3

Affiliation:

1. Department of Science and Chemical Engineering, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan CF37 1DL, UK

2. Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan CF37 1DL, UK

3. Dip. Ing. Idraulica, Ambientale e del Rilevamento, Politecnico di Milano, via Fratelli Gorlini 1, 20151 Milano, Italy

Abstract

Alkalinity or pH buffering capacity in anaerobic digesters is chiefly a function of bicarbonate levels, and should be within 10 to 50 mM for stable operation. A novel on-line instrument for measuring bicarbonate alkalinity has been developed, independent of titration techniques. Using a 10 litre anaerobic filter digester operating on ice-cream wastewater, on-line measurements were made of bicarbonate alkalinity, pH, gas production and % CO2 and hydrogen concentration in the biogas during periods of organic overload. The bicarbonate alkalinity monitor was shown to be an effective instrument for monitoring instability of anaerobic digestion, and a useful tool for early warning of overloading. Moreover, in digesters fed with wastewaters containing low potential alkalinity, it allows indirect on-line determination of variations in volatile fatty acid concentration. Finally, used in conjunction with a sensor that measures CO2 in the gas, it allows an indirect but accurate determination of pH in those solutions where fouling of electrodes is severe.

Publisher

IWA Publishing

Subject

Water Science and Technology,Environmental Engineering

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