Small scale AD database

Data collection method:

Data regarding anaerobic digestion (AD) applications was gathered from literature and analysed to evaluate the current status of small-scale AD technology and feedstocks, to develop a better understanding of the sustainability of AD systems, and to explore any trends or correlations within the data. The database was constructed based on small-scale AD applications (< 1,000 m3), and targeting the most common operational parameters which control the process, e.g. reactor type and volume (m3), temperature (o C), hydraulic retention time (HRT, d), organic loading rate (OLR, Kg COD m-3d-1), COD removal efficiency (%) and biogas yield (m3 biogas Kg-1 VS added). The data was sorted based on the scale of application (full scale, pilot, lab, feasibility studies), and the type of the feedstock treated and its composition. The targeted feedstocks were food waste, source separated waste (black water) and sewage. Farm and animal waste was also included as a reference point. Where needed, the literature data was reprocessed to standardise values and to fill in the gaps of information. As a result, a database of small-scale AD systems was built, based on size classifications used by the original authors.

Data processing and preparation activities:

In case of gaps in the literature data, simple mass balance calculations were used complete the data. Unless specified in the literature, a standard temperature of 35 0 C was used, corresponding to mesophilic conditions.