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Published on: April 9, 2016
Study on the flocs poly-β-hydroxybutyrate production and process optimization in the bio-flocs technology system
Yun-Jie Ruan1, Liang Zhu, Xiang-Yang Xu
1Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China.
Bio-flocs technology in sequencing batch reactors efficiently treats aquaculture wastewater, accumulating poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) in flocs. Optimized conditions achieved high PHB yields, showing potential for sustainable aquaculture applications.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
- Aquaculture Engineering
Background:
- Aquaculture wastewater poses environmental challenges.
- Poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) accumulation in bio-flocs is a potential resource.
- Optimizing PHB yield requires understanding process parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply bio-flocs technology (BFT) in sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) for aquaculture wastewater treatment.
- To optimize poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) accumulation within flocs.
- To evaluate the impact of operating parameters on PHB yield using statistical modeling.
Main Methods:
- Utilized bio-flocs technology (BFT) within a sequencing batch reactor (SBR).
- Employed statistical modeling to analyze system performance and optimize PHB yield.
- Investigated the effects of C/N ratio, flocs biomass concentration (VSS), and anaerobic time.
Main Results:
- All tested variables significantly impacted PHB yield.
- Significant interactions were observed between C/N ratio and VSS, and C/N ratio and anaerobic time.
- Optimized conditions yielded 150-200 mg PHB/g VSS, with 4-7 g/L VSS, C/N ratio of 15-18, and 50-85 min anaerobic time.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing ex-situ operating strategies in BFT systems can achieve substantial flocs PHB yield.
- The accumulated PHB has potential prebiotic value.
- This approach offers practical implications for sustainable aquaculture development.
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