A Strategy for Optimizing Aerobic Digestion: a Cyclical Process
A common misconception for aerobic digestion is that the process must be aerated 100% of the retention time. In redefining this outlook, it has been found that cycling between mixing and mixing while aerating proves to be more effective and energy efficient. By having the ability to turn the air off and on, the system creates aerobic and anoxic phases allowing for further nutrient reduction, improved dewaterability, and increased volatile sludge destruction.
This supports endogenous respiration and nitrification. Many different technologies exist for aerobic digestion, and often multiple types of equipment must be combined to achieve the cyclical process. Fortunately, there are systems that can perform decoupled mixing and aerating with only one device.
