What is the consequence of not maintaining a high volatile solid concentration in an aerobic digester?

Maintaining a high volatile solid concentration in an aerobic digester is crucial for effective treatment and digestion of wastewater. When the concentration of volatile solids is not adequately maintained, it leads to a decrease in the microbial population that is responsible for the digestion process. This results in lower rates of digestion and less effective nutrient reduction.

As the volatile solids concentration decreases, the overall efficiency of the digester diminishes, leading to a reduced percent reduction of solids and organic matter. This means that the system is less effective at breaking down waste materials, which can impact the overall performance of the treatment facility, leading to potential regulatory issues due to insufficient treatment.

In summary, inadequate maintenance of high volatile solids concentration not only hampers the digestion process but directly correlates with a decrease in the percent reduction of waste, highlighting the importance of managing this parameter in aerobic digestion systems.