Enhancing methane production from anaerobic digestion of secondary sludge through lignosulfonate addition: Feasibility, mechanisms, and implications

Zhenyao Wang, Xuan Li*, Huan Liu, Ting Zhou, Jibin Li, Muhammad Ahmar Siddiqui, Carol Sze Ki Lin, Mohammad Rafe Hatshan, Siyu Huang, Julie M. Cairney, Qilin Wang*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study explores the feasibility of using lignosulfonate, a byproduct of the pulp and paper industry, to facilitate sludge anaerobic digestion. Biochemical methane potential assays revealed that the maximum methane production was achieved at 60 mg/g volatile solids (VS) lignosulfonate, 22.18 % higher than the control. One substrate model demonstrated that 60 mg/g VS lignosulfonate boosted the hydrolysis rate, biochemical methane potential, and degradation extent of secondary sludge by 19.12 %, 21.87 %, and 21.11 %, respectively, compared to the control. Mechanisms unveiled that lignosulfonate destroyed sludge stability, promoted organic matter release, and enhanced subsequent hydrolysis, acidification, and methanogenesis by up to 31.30 %, 74.42 % and 28.16 %, respectively. Phytotoxicity assays confirmed that lignosulfonate promoted seed germination and root development of lettuce and Chinese cabbage, with seed germination index reaching 170 ± 10 % and 220 ± 22 %, respectively. The findings suggest that lignosulfonate addition offers a sustainable approach to sludge treatment, guiding effective management practices. © 2023 Elsevier Ltd
Original languageEnglish
Article number129868
JournalBioresource Technology
Volume390
Online published14 Oct 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023

Research Keywords

  • Biochemical methane potential
  • Lignosulfonate
  • One substrate model
  • Phytotoxicity tests
  • Secondary sludge

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