Semi-thermophilic anaerobic digestion (41–49°C): A review of its potential for enhanced methane production and system stability

Changxun Zhao, Jiefei Mo, Yong Qin, Yabin Gong, Ouru Zhan, Bo Song and Weixiang Wu

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2025, vol. 215, issue C

Abstract: The low methane production efficiency of mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD) and the stability issues associated with thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD) have become bottlenecks limiting the development of anaerobic digestion (AD) technologies. Recently, research focusing on the semi-thermophilic temperature range of 41–49 °C has suggested that this approach could effectively overcome these limitations. However, conflicting evidence regarding semi-thermophilic anaerobic digestion (STAD) has hindered the progress of related research and technological applications. This paper conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the methane production efficiency of STAD, systematically comparing its system stability and kinetic parameters relative to both MAD and TAD. The findings revealed that STAD holds significant potential for enhancing both methane production efficiency and system stability. The observed high efficiency and stability in STAD may be attributed to the adaptive growth and metabolic capabilities of its diverse microbial communities, as well as the balance between acid-alkalinity conditions and hydrogen regulation. Based on the insights from this review, recommendations for optimization and future research were proposed. This review contributes to the re-evaluation of traditional temperature classifications in AD, offering new insights into the mechanisms and broader applications of STAD.

Keywords: Semi-thermophilic anaerobic digestion; Temperature; Meta-analysis; Methane production; Stability; Microbial structure; Metabolism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2025.115630

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