A Systematic Review of Machine-Learning Solutions in Anaerobic Digestion

Abstract

The use of machine learning (ML) in anaerobic digestion (AD) is growing in popularity and improves the interpretation of complex system parameters for better operation and optimisation. This systematic literature review aims to explore how ML is currently employed in AD, with particular attention to the challenges of implementation and the benefits of integrating ML techniques. While both lab and industry-scale datasets have been used for model training, challenges arise from varied system designs and the different monitoring equipment used. Traditional machine-learning techniques, predominantly artificial neural networks (ANN), are the most commonly used but face difficulties in scalability and interpretability. Specifically, models trained on lab-scale data often struggle to generalize to full-scale, real-world operations due to the complexity and variability in bacterial communities and system operations. In practical scenarios, machine learning can be employed in real-time operations for predictive modelling, ensuring system stability is maintained, resulting in improved efficiency of both biogas production and waste treatment processes. Through reviewing the ML techniques employed in wider applied domains, potential future research opportunities in addressing these challenges have been identified.