Anaerobic fluidized bed whey treatment

Abstract

Anaerobic treatment of moderate strength lactic casein why permeate [2000–7000 mg/L soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD)] is possible in fluidized bed reactors. Removal efficiencies up to 90% were obtained at organic removal rates of 7.7 kg SCOD M⁻³ day⁻¹ and efficiencies of 70% were obtained at organic removal rates of 19.5 kg SCOD M⁻³ day⁻¹, both at 35°C. A removal rate of 3.0 kg SCOD M⁻³ day⁻¹ at 50% removal efficiency was obtained at 15°C. Nutrient requirements were much lower than for CSTR systems, and no supplemental nitrogen or phosphorus was required. Removal rates increased and removal efficiency decreased as the organic loading increased. Microorganism concentration increased with decreasing temperature, compensating for reduced reaction rates at lower temperatures.