Biological conversion of organic refuse to methane. Final report, July 1, 1973--November 30, 1976

In order to predict accurately the cost of producing methane from urban refuse, studies were initiated on the dewatering of the fermentor residue and the disposal of the residue from the system. Results of the research are reported under the following subject headings: fermentation system; rheological properties of reactor slurry; filterability of reactor effluent; residue dewatering--vacuum filtration; settleability of solids in the reactor effluent; settleability of sludges from centrate treatment; centrifugation of reactor effluent; leachate potential of dewatered reactor residue; calorific value of the reactor residue; residue incineration; the production of panelboards; caustic treatment of digester feed; and, treatment of filtrate--centrate. Appendixes A, B, D, and E are included; Appendix C, which includes computer programs and documentation, is bound separately as Volume II of this report. (JGB)