Optimization of the Performances of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME)-Based Biogas Plants Using Comparative Analysis and Response Surface Methodology

The rapid increase in demand for renewable energy has led to a need more efficient and effective ways produce biogas from palm oil mill effluent (POME), which is rich biological chemical oxygen (BOD COD). Despite its potential as source of biogas, POME not always effectively utilized production due lack optimization the treatment process. This study aims address this issue by identifying critical parameters affecting optimizing process maximum yield COD removal. employed comparative analysis response surface methodology optimize performance (POME)-based plants Malaysia. Historical data three commercial POME-based Malaysia were analyzed identify most Response methodology, using Box–Behnken design Design-Expert software, was then used these parameters. Sensitivity performed interpret impact on production, with Organic Loading Rate (OLR) found be factor methane yield. results showed that optimum conditions OLR 1.23 kg/m3·day, inlet Total Solids (TS) 46,370 mg/L, pH 4.5, temperature 45.4 °C, resulting 39.6% (0.335 m3 CH4/kgCODremoved) 1.1% removal (93.4%).