Seasonal performance and characteristic of abr for low strength wastewater

Abstract

The performance and the characteristics of a laboratory-scale ABR (anaerobic baffled reactor) were investigated during different seasons (summer, spring, autumn and winter). ABR successfully achieved COD removal efficiencies 74% during summer, 68% during autumn/spring and 62% during winter. Compartment I, II and III showed high removal rate of COD during whole study period. At lower OLR (organic loading rate), COD removal rate was high. The analysis of biogas production during all seasons showed downward trend with increase of HRTs (hydraulic retention time). Compartment I showed high VFA (volatile fatty acid) synthesis compared to others compartments. The ABR has the potential to provide a greater efficiency and be applicable for all type of seasons and temperature conditions.