Control/promotion of the refuse methanogenic fermentation.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Landfill disposal of refuse is a long-standing practice, historically viewed solely as a low-cost disposal method.
• The potential for refuse exploitation has been largely overlooked, with emerging technologies considering its use for energy, chemical feedstock, and soil improvement.
• Developing these technologies requires a thorough understanding of the microbiology and biochemistry involved in refuse decomposition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review fundamental knowledge underpinning refuse exploitation technologies.
• To examine the control and exploitation of solid-state refuse methanogenic fermentation.
• To analyze the effects of first-tier variable manipulations on refuse fermentation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing fundamental knowledge on refuse catabolism.
• Focus on solid-state methanogenic fermentation processes.
• Analysis of variable manipulations impacting fermentation.

Main Results:

• Refuse offers diverse exploitation possibilities: energy, chemical feedstock, value-added chemicals, protein production, and wastewater treatment.
• Refuse can be used as an anaerobic filter for industrial wastewater and sludge co-disposal.
• Application of fresh or composted refuse can restore impoverished soils.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of refuse microbiology and biochemistry is crucial for developing advanced exploitation technologies.
• Control and exploitation of solid-state refuse methanogenic fermentation are key areas for research.
• Further investigation into variable manipulations is necessary for optimizing refuse fermentation processes.