Model selection, identification and validation in anaerobic digestion: a review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Process Engineering

Background:

• Anaerobic digestion (AD) is vital for waste treatment and biogas generation, attracting global interest.
• The complexity of microbial interactions in AD makes process start-up and operation challenging.
• Dynamic models are essential for understanding AD process dynamics and optimizing operational conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing modeling frameworks for anaerobic digestion.
• To discuss methodologies for parameter estimation and model validation in AD.
• To provide a pragmatic focus on simple, efficient modeling methods for AD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of dynamic modeling approaches for anaerobic digestion.
• Analysis of parameter estimation techniques relevant to AD processes.
• Discussion of model validation strategies for AD systems.

Main Results:

• Identified various modeling frameworks applicable to anaerobic digestion.
• Highlighted diverse methodologies for parameter estimation and model validation.
• Emphasized the need for pragmatic, efficient methods understandable by plant operators.

Conclusions:

• Effective modeling is key to overcoming the complexities of anaerobic digestion.
• Simple and efficient modeling approaches are crucial for practical application in AD.
• Further research should focus on accessible modeling tools for AD optimization.