ANAEROBIC CO-DIGESTION OF MICROALGAE AND RESIDUAL GLYCEROL RECOVERED FROM BIODIESEL: EVALUATION OF PRETREATMENT AND COD/N RATIO

Anaerobic digestion can be a viable alternative for the destination of effluents from stabilization ponds rich in naturally produced microalgae, without need concentration processes, however, there are challenges related to rigid cell wall microalgae and low carbon content its composition, overcome. To improve these parameters, this study comparatively evaluated hydrolytic pretreatments ponds, aiming hydrolyze microorganisms, co-digestion with residual glycerol biodiesel. In case, is by-product limited applicability, acting scenario as supplier, improving C/N ratio, biodegradation biomethane production. Effluents submitted thermal ultrasonic hydrolysis (for 30 90 minutes) were tested assess their potential production methane-rich biogas, monitored by gauge measurements gas chromatography, respectively, The heat treatment minutes showed more satisfactory results was replicated benchtop anaerobic reactor (R2), parallel operating untreated (R1), continuous feed system. effects pretreatment COD/N ratio on organic matter removal R2 most effect COD removal, resulting up 90% removed, theoretical biogas 0.52 L g-1 removed. As methane contained R1 reached percentages 84% against 73% R2.