Proposal for the definition of parameters and analytical measurements applicable to the anaerobic digestion processes

This proposal originates from work performed within the R and D Programme of the Commission of the European Communities on 'Recycling of Urban and Industrial Waste'. The programme has four research areas, research area III being Fermentation and Hydrolysis with three research topics: (1) Anaerobic Digestion, (2) Carbohydrate Hydrolysis, and (3) Composting. During the work of the specialised meetings on Anaerobic Digestion, it clearly appeared that the scientific literature showed a great confusion in the description of experiments and the use of state parameters and running parameters in anaerobic digestion. This makes understanding and comparison of results difficult and the exchange of information is, as a consequence, inhibited. It was realised that it was necessary to prepare a proposal to correct these defects. A draft proposal, prepared by a committee composed of the authors, was submitted for comments to the participants in the specialised meetings and discussed and improved during many meetings. This final paper is proposed to the scientific community for trial during a year.