Utilizing Coagulation and Methane Potential Tests to Assess the Efficiency of Slaughterhouse Wastewater Hydrolysis

The meat industry’s significant freshwater demand and the consequent generation of substantial wastewater require effective treatment methods. With a global increase in meat production, water consumption and wastewater generation are on the rise. Simultaneously, regulatory measures such as the “Fit for 55” package aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and preserve water resources. In response, the meat industry must explore sustainable practices, including reduction of water consumption and biomethane production through wastewater treatment. This study focuses on assessing the impact of hydrolysis on methane potential (MP) in slaughterhouse wastewater. To gauge hydrolysis efficiency, an in-house coagulation-based method was developed, proposing a new approach by comparing coagulation and filtration. Coagulation proves superior in presenting COD values closer to actual levels with less variation. Monitoring progress at 22 °C and 35 °C, with a consistent pH of 9, tests were conducted over 1, 2, 3, and 5 days. Methane production post-hydrolysis ranged from 178.8 to 242.6 CH₄ Nml/g_COD across tested cases, aligning with existing literature. Optimal conditions for increased methane potential involved a 5-day hydrolysis at 35 °C, demonstrating a 30% average boost in specific wastewater methane production. This study provides a valuable exploration of hydrolysis effects on methane potential, offering insights for sustainable wastewater management in the meat industry.