Optimization of Fermentation Parameters for the Sustainable Production of Effective Carbon Sources from Kitchen Waste to Enhance Nutrient Removal in Sewage

Xuwei Gui, Ling Wang and Zhenlun Li ()
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Xuwei Gui: Chongqing Key Laboratory of Chemical Process for Clean Energy and Resource Utilization, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
Ling Wang: Hanhong College, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
Zhenlun Li: Chongqing Key Laboratory of Interface Process and Soil Health, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-13

Abstract: In this study, we optimize the kitchen waste fermentation process by adjusting the fermentation time and temperature to prepare high-efficiency carbon sources to enhance nitrogen and phosphorus removal during sewage treatment. Simulated kitchen waste fermentation experiments were performed, and the impact on the pollutant removal efficiencies was analyzed using a sequence batch reactor (SBR). The results showed that the volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration peak occurred on the first day of fermentation, the maximum increment was 543.19 mg/L, and the maximum soluble chemical oxygen demand/total nitrogen (COD/TN) ratio was 40.49. However, the highest total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency was 70.42% on the second day of fermentation. An increase in temperature promoted organic matter release, with the highest soluble COD concentration of 22.69 g/L observed at 45 °C. Further, the maximum VFAs production (935.08–985.13 mg/L) occurred from 25 to 35 °C. In addition, the fermentation products in this temperature range also showed the optimal removal efficiencies for total phosphorus (TP) and TN at 91.50% and 79.63%, respectively. Although 15 °C and 45 °C were beneficial for COD reduction, they were not conducive to nitrogen and phosphorus removal. The energy consumption and the synergistic pollutant removal showed that the optimal fermentation conditions were 2 days at 35 °C. Under these conditions, the kitchen waste-derived carbon source achieved efficient TN and TP removal, as well as COD reduction. Therefore, these conditions provide a feasible solution for the “reduction and sustainability” of kitchen waste.

Keywords: kitchen waste; renewable carbon; resource utilization; process optimization; nutrient removal (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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