Biogas generation from an anaerobic pond 'abattoir'

Abstract

[Abstract]: Management and treatment of abattoir wastewater is essential for effluent disposal processes. Since abattoir wastewater contains very high concentrations of organic matter, suspended solids, nitrogen and phosphorus, the potential environmental impact is of great concern to all communities. Efforts are being made to attain a high quality effluent by utilising biological treatments using anaerobic ponds. In doing so, biogas production is harnessed and electricity generation is utilised. The research paper provides background research with a detailed review of available literature in the use of covered anaerobic ponds, conducted for the Churchill Abattoir to treat their high strength abattoir wastewater. An analysis of the performance of the wastewater treatment system, with emphasis on covered anaerobic ponds and effluent quality, was conducted with assistance from on-site measurements taken from the abattoir.