The Microbiology of Anaerobic Digesters

Anaerobic digestion is a biochemical degradation process that converts complex organic material, such as animal manure, into methane and other byproducts. Part of the author's Wastewater Microbiology series, Microbiology of Anareboic Digesters eschews technical jargon to deliver a practical, how-to guide for wastewater plant operators.

Preface. PART I: OVERVIEW. 1. Introduction. 2. Bacteria. 3. Methane-forming Bacteria. 4. Respiration. 5. Anaerobic Food Chain. 6. Fermentation. 7. Anaerobic Digestion Steps. PART II: SUBSTRATES, PRODUCTS, AND BIOGAS. 8. Substrates and Products. 9. Biogas. PART III: 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. PART IV: PROCESS CONTROL AND TROUBLESHOOTING. 19. Upsets and Unstable Digesters. 20. Foam and Scum Production and Accumulation. 21. Supernatant. 22. Monitoring. PART V: DIGESTERS. 23. Types of Anaerobic Digesters. 24. Anaerobic Digesters verses Aerobic Digesters. References. Abbreviations and Acronyms. Chemical Compounds and Elements. Glossary. Index.