Phase separated pretreatment strategies for enhanced waste activated sludge disintegration in anaerobic digestion: An outlook and recent trends

A significant ecological problem was developed on disposing the enormous amounts of waste activated sludge (WAS) produced by traditional wastewater treatment. There have been various attempts recently originated to develop innovative methods for substantial sludge treatment. The most frequently used approach for treating sludge to produces methane and reduces sludge is anaerobic treatment. The hydrolysis phase in WAS limits the breakdown of complex macrobiotic compounds. The presence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in biomass prevents the substrate from being hydrolyzed. Enhancing substrate hydrolysis involves removal of EPS preceded by phase separated pretreatment. Hence, a critical assessment of various phase separated pretreatment that has a remarkable effect on the anaerobic digestion process was documented in detail. Moreover, the eco-nomic viability and energy requirement of this treatment process was also discussed. Perspectives and recom-mendations for methane production were also provided to attain effectual sludge management.

Automated summary

A significant ecological problem arises from the disposal of large amounts of waste activated sludge (WAS) generated by traditional wastewater treatment. Innovative methods for sludge treatment have been developed, with anaerobic treatment being the most commonly used approach. The hydrolysis phase in WAS hinders the breakdown of complex macrobiotic compounds, and the presence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in biomass inhibits substrate hydrolysis. This study provides a detailed assessment of various phase separated pretreatment methods that have a significant impact on the anaerobic digestion process. The economic viability and energy requirements of this treatment process are also discussed, along with recommendations for methane production and effective sludge management.