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Project title

High-rate anaerobic digestion as a core technology for sustainable treatment of municipal and low-strength industrial wastewaters

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)

Lead Applicant

Vincent O'Flaherty

Project Abstract

Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is a biological process of waste treatment which converts organic matter to biogas a useable fuel and a renewable energy source. The process occurs in bioreactors where the microbes which carry out the process are retained as biofilms. AD is an established sustainable waste treatment technology for residues from various sources including industrial processes and agriculture. It has advantages over the conventional aerobic treatment approach including lower capital and operating costs. To date AD has not been applied for direct treatment of municipal wastewaters or domestic sewage due mainly to concerns regarding the stability and efficiency of low-temperature AD. Recent advances in AD research and technology by the applicants and others have indicated that high-rate low-temperature AD is a feasible and highly efficient approach. This project will using state of the art methodologies evaluate the applicability and underlying microbiology of low-temperature AD for municipal wastewater treatment under Irish conditions. If successful this innovative approach with AD as the core technology for municipal wastewater treatment will revolutionise the field of wastewater treatment realise a major commercial and technological opportunity and facilitate future sustainable development in Ireland.

Grant Approved

�299,436.38

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Protecting our Water Resources

Start Date

01/02/2006

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/12/2009