A simulation study of a continuous two-phase dry digestion system.
In this article a two-phase system for the continuous digestion of wastes with a high solid content is simulated. The studied parameters are: (1) Recirculation from the methanizer to the hydrolyzer, (2) methanizer/hydrolyzer volume ratio, and (3) hydraulic retention time in the hydrolyzer (HRT). Results show that the recirculation ratio is an important operational factor with a large influence on the biodegradation yield, especially at low HRT. Optimum levels of this parameter are established. Some runs of the program have been carried out to test the stability of the system. This has proved to be very stable, especially at low recirculation ratios. The results also show that volume ratio does not appreciably affect the performance of the system, provided it is over a critical value, dictated by the allowable methanizer load.
Mata-Alvarez
J
J
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.