Kinetic Parameters of Thermophilic Digestion of Swine Manure

ABSTRACT A laboratory study was conducted to investigate the kinetic parameters important in the design and operation of thermophilic digestion of swine manure. The experimental design was set up to test the effects of temperature, retention time (RT) and feed concentration (SJ on these parameters as presented in the Chen-Hashimoto model. Feed concentrations of 3%, 4%, 5% and 6% VS were tried at 5-, 8- and 13-day RT at 50°C to determine a non-inhibitory concentration. Based on the results from the above experiments, 3% VS was chosen for temperature treatments of 45, 50, 55 and 60°C at RTs of 4, 5, 8, 10 and 13 days. Inhibition played a significant role in thermophilic digestion of swine manure. Possible mechanisms involved were discussed.