Performance of expanded-bed methanogenic reactor

A completely mixed, expanded-bed, anaerobic granular activated carbon reactor was operated continuously on synthetic wastewaters in which acetate was the only organic carbon source. Steady-state performance was achieved for four influent acetate concentrations, namely: 800, 1,600, 3,200, and 6,400 mg/L. Steady-state removal efficiencies of acetate, COD and DOC exceeded 98, 97 and 98%, respectively. Biological utilization was the major removal mechanism for acetate in the anaerobic filter. This process was demonstrated to be capable of purifying low strength wastewaters down to levels that are acceptable for final discharge.