Application of rumen microorganisms in the anaerobic fermentation of an organic fraction of domestic refuse.

Abstract The application of rumen microorganisms in an ‘artificial rumen’ reactor for the anaerobic fermentation of an organic fraction of domestic refuse was studied. The acidogenic-phase digestion was optimized by testing various combinations of solid retention times and loading rates. VS conversion rates of about 60% were achieved at a loading rate of 40g of volatile solids per litre per day, a solid retention time of 90 h and a hydraulic retention time of 12 h. Specific production rates for volatile fatty acids and biogas were 7·5 mmol and 0·21 litres per g volatile solids digested, respectively. The mean molar ratio of acetic, propionic and butyric acids was 68:16:16. The methane content of the biogas was about 44%.