Evaluation of Residues from Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste Using an Anaerobic Baffled Reactor (ABR) as a Potential Source of Organic Fertilizer
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anaerobic baffled reactor, food waste, organic fertilizer, residue
Abstract
Food waste is an abundant organic resource that can be valorized through anaerobic digestion, producing both energy and nutrient-rich residues. This study assessed the potential of residues from a 75 L Anaerobic Baffled Reactor (ABR) as an alternative source of organic fertilizer. The reactor, equipped with four partitions, was operated for 17 days under mesophilic conditions using an influent mixture of 75% food waste and 25% activated sludge. Process performance was evaluated through suspended solids and ammonia nitrogen monitoring, while the residue was analyzed for nutrient content and tested for agronomic potential using seed germination assays. The ABR achieved an 88% reduction in suspended solids, confirming effective solids stabilization. However, the low C/N ratio of the feedstock led to continuous ammonia accumulation and acidic conditions, restricting methanogenesis. The solid residue contained 0.44% nitrogen, 0.13% phosphorus, and 0.42% potassium. In the germination test, 5 out of 10 Ipomoea seeds grew successfully after two weeks of residue application, showing partial fertilization potential. The findings indicate that ABR residues are more suitable as soil conditioners or supplementary fertilizer components rather than stand-alone fertilizers. Process optimization and nutrient recovery strategies are recommended to enhance their agronomic value
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References
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