Biomethanization of the Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Wastes

Biomethanization of the Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Wastesis acomprehensive introduction to both the fundamentals and the more practical aspectsof the anaerobic digestion of organic solid wastes, particularly those derived fromhouseholds, that is, the organic fraction of municipal solid wastes (OFMSW). It canbe used as a textbook for specialized courses and also as a guide for practitioners. In the first part, the book covers the relevant aspects of anaerobic digestion (AD)of organic wastes. The fundamentals and kinetic aspects of AD are reviewed withparticular emphasis on the aspects related to solid wastes. This introduction isnecessary to have a comprehensive view of the AD process and to understand thepractical principles as well as the origin of possible problems arising from themanagement of the process. Chapter 2 emphasizes the role of kinetics in designingthe reactor, paying special attention to existing models, particularly the dynamicones. Through this introduction, it is intended to facilitate the technology transferfrom laboratory or pilot plant experiences to full-scale process, in order to implementimprovements in current digesters. Laboratory methods are described for the analysis and optimization of reactorperformance, such as methanogenic activity tests or experimental evaluation of thebiodegradation kinetics of solid organic waste. The different reaction patterns appliedto industrial reactors are outlined. Industrial reactors are classified in accordancewith the system they use, pointing out advantages and limitations. Co-digestion, enabling the co-treatment of organic wastes of different origin ina more economically feasible way, is described in detail. Examples of co-digestionare given, with OFMSW as a base-substrate. Finally, full-scale co-digestionplants are discussed. Various types (mechanical, biological, physico-chemical) ofpre-treatment to increase the biodegradability, and thus the yields of the process,are reviewed in detail. The use of the fermentation products of anaerobic digesters for biological nutrientremoval processes in wastewater treatment plants is described. This constitutes anexample of integrated waste management, a field in which both economic andtechnical advances can be achieved. Balances are given to justify the approach, anda full-scale case study is presented. The important topic of economics and the ecological advantages of the processare emphasized. The use of compost, the integration with composting technology,and advantages over other technologies are detailed in the framework of anenvironmental impact assessment of biowaste treatment. Finally, the anaerobic digestion of MSW in landfills is reviewed in detail, withemphasis on landfill process enhancement and strategies for its application.