Simulation and optimization for biohydrogen production potential of various organic waste via anaerobic digestion

Abstract

A simulation model was developed for biohydrogen production from organic feeds such as cow dung (CD), banana stem (BS), and waste paper pulps (WPP). Data from the model was used to generate a design of experiment (DoE) that analysed the data and optimizes the input parameters for optimized biohydrogen yield. Three input parameters taken for optimization were pretreatment temperature (PTT), hydraulic retention time (HRT), and feed-to-water (F/W) ratio. Results showed the optimal sequence of influencing parameters is PTT > HRT > F/W ratio. The optimal value of PTT was 75 ℃ for all feeds. In contrast, the HRT and F/W ratios were 13.1 days and 0.5 ratio for CD, 16.6 days and 1.5 ratio for BS, and 11.7 days and 1.4 ratio for WPP. At the same time, the optimal biohydrogen yield was 24.59 % (CD), 25.27 % (BS), and 24.21 % (WPP). Therefore, the current simulation and optimization had convincing results in optimizing commercial plants' biohydrogen production.