water

Review
Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) Assay Method
for Anaerobic Digestion Research
Jameson Filer, Huihuang H. Ding and Sheng Chang *
School of Engineering, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
[email protected] (J.F.); [email protected] (H.H.D.)
* Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +1-519-824-4120




Received: 16 March 2019; Accepted: 28 April 2019; Published: 1 May 2019


Abstract: Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests are widely used for characterizing a substrate’s
influence on the anaerobic digestion process. As of 2018, there continues to be a lack of standardization
of units and techniques, which impacts the comparability and validity of BMP results. However,
BMP methods continue to evolve, and key aspects are studied to further eliminate systematic errors.
This paper aims to update these key aspects with the latest research progress both to introduce the
importance of each variable to those new to BMP measurements and to show the complexity required
to design an accurate BMP test.

Keywords: anaerobic digestion; biochemical methane potential; energy recovery; sludge treatment

1. Introduction
Anaerobic digestion (AD) has been used for its emphasis on energy conservation and recovery
and desire to obtain beneficial use of organic waste [1–3]. Acting through a series of complex
microbiological processes, diverse types of bacteria work in an assembly line fashion going through
four stages: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogensis and methanogensis [4]. These bacteria are sensitive
to environmental conditions, and it is important to balance a range of factors to maximize the chances
for achieving optimum design and efficient operation [5,6]. The approach often involves the recognition
of the rate-limiting step, which is linked to knowing the characteristics of the organic material being
digested. Therefore, the feed characteristics such as toxicity and biodegradability have been found to
be major factors for affecting system design and performance [7].
Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests are a popular technique to determine the methane
potential and biodegradability of wastewater and waste biomass [8]. In the test, a substrate is mixed
with an anaerobic bacteria culture, normally retrieved from an active digester. The bottles are then
stored at a stable temperature of either 35 ◦ C or 55 ◦ C, and constantly mixed for a period of 30–60
days [9,10]. Methane and carbon dioxide are produced during the testing period due to the anaerobic
degradation of organic contents of the substrate. The methane generated from the substrate is then
measured and the methane potential of the substrate which is expressed as per mass of volatile solids
added or chemical oxygen demand (COD) added can be calculated by subtracting the methane volume
from a blank. In addition, the substrate may be expressed as in terms of biodegradability by dividing
the cumulative methane volume by the theoretical cumulative methane volume, which is obtained
from the chemical ratio of 1 g COD = 0.35 mL CH4 at standard temperature and pressure conditions
(STP) [11].
Since the popular methodology of Owen et al. [12] was published, BMP test have been used
to characterize a wide variety of substrates and have become important tools for investigating
possible pre and post digestion treatment options. As computer models and the complexity of
mathematical expressions to describe the anaerobic digestion process improved, the information from

Water 2019, 11, 921; doi:10.3390/w11050921 www.mdpi.com/journal/water

Water 2019, 11, 921 2 of 29

batch experiments have been found to produce reasonable predictions of full-scale behaviour. The
BMPs of the substrates to be digested and their specific organic loads could be used to design different
components of full-scale anaerobic digestion plants such as the size of the digesters and possibilities of
exploiting the produced biogas. For example, Holliger et al. [13] compared the volume of methane
predicted by BMP data with the methane volume measured onsite from a full-scale installation over
a period of 7 to 9 months. The authors found that the BMP weekly methane production rates were
similar and followed the same pattern. In addition, Li et al. [14] found that information obtained from
BMP degradation rates could also be used as a practical tool for evaluating process performance in
full-scale biogas processes.
Currently, the central issue with BMP tests is the lack of standardized procedures and information
required for reporting. Many international and national procedures have been proposed, each
using different serum bottles, test inoculum, food to microorganism ratios, nutrients and methane
measurement devices. As stated by Pham et al. [15], the most popular methods are Møller et al. [16],
Hansen et al. [17], Angelidaki et al., [18] and the Association of German Engineers standard procedure
VD1 4630. However, because of a lack of standardized protocol, there have been serious drawbacks
impacting the industry user. As the reliability of generated information could be under question
due to laboratory specific experimental, operation conditions, and data presentation, limiting the
comparability of published results.
In addition, there is the issue of a lack of clear instructions for new operators to start BMP tests.
Most BMP methodologies provide general guidelines to accommodate all substrates. As a result, it
is difficult for a new operator to design a test with accuracy and confidence due to increased room
for variation and misinterpretation. It might be useful to provide methodologies specific to certain
groups of substrates. There could be increased confidence in the transferability of the methodology
to other labs investigating similar substrates, such as the biodegradability of sludge in the range of
0.5% to 6% solid content. In addition, what is missing from other methodologies is transparency of
experimental setups. By being simple and clear through providing an example test setup data such
as liquid volumes (which are never shown in other papers), COD mass balance, or the number of
bottles used, this would be useful for new labs as it can serve as a model for comparison. Even if
labs find there are many areas in need of improvement or obvious sections contributing to inherent
inaccuracy, their method could be improved faster because areas in need of development can be more
easily pinpointed for their specific lab setup and wastewater sample.
The objective of this paper was to (1) review recent studies that completed experiments to provide
insight into key factors such as inoculum, substrate, experimental conditions, operational conditions
and data analysis/reporting, as at the time of most protocols, no previous research had been carried out
to study the influence of several key factors on anaerobic biodegradability in batch mode, (2) outline an
easy to understand BMP serum bottle syringe method for new operators using primary and secondary
sludge from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) as a case example, and (3) provide the reader with
perspective on work investigating future areas of BMP development.

2. Review of BMP Variability Factors

To understand the BMP method, it is important to provide background information discussing
each of the required components of a test. The following section goes through the required serum
bottle sets, the environmental conditions needed for healthy digestion, the test components quality for
wastewater characterization, and techniques used to monitor the progress and health of the anaerobic
digestion process during incubation.

2.1. Set-Up of BMP Bottle Test

BMP tests are usually carried out in a volume range depending on the substrate homogeneity.
Smaller volumes (125–500 mL) should be used for homogenous substrates, while large volumes
(500 to 2000 mL) are more appropriate for heterogenous substrates [9,19]. Smaller bottles may not
Water 2019, 11, 921 3 of 29

ensure realistic operation conditions due to the smaller microbial consortia and reduced volatile
fatty acid concentrations (VFA) compared to large scale reactors where higher concentrations of
microorganism exist [19]. Pearse et al. [19] recommended that even though larger bottles, due to
increased concentrations of microorganism accelerate hydrolysis and VFA build up in the system, they
will provide more realistic predictions of gas generation.
BMP tests require a blank, control and substrate. All groups should be performed in triplicates
for reproducibility of the tests and statistical analysis. The substrate bottle is filled with inoculum,
the substrate, and added nutrients if needed. The blank is filled with the inoculum, a medium or
water, but no substrate to provide the background methane generation from the organic material in the
inoculum. The control assesses the accuracy of the BMP test using a substrate with a known theoretical
methane yield.
The control bottles are filled with inoculum, the control substrate, and added nutrients if needed.
To calculate the theoretical reference methane yield value for the selected control substrate, the Buswell
formula is commonly used for substrates with known chemical composition (carbon, hydrogen and
oxygen) [20,21]. Microcrystalline cellulose, is the most common choice for a control substrate because,
as stated by Koch et al. [22] it is relatively easy to calculate the theoretical BMP, its degradation involves
all steps in AD, it is cheap, and in high-quality and purity (theoretical methane potential of 415 mL
CH4 /g VS at STP) [23]. However, results are rarely 100% accurate when calculating the methane
yield of the positive control. There is agreement that during AD, 10% of the substrate is for biomass
growth and transformation into heat [23]. This is reflected in the VD1 4630 guideline stating that when
cellulose is digested in a BMP test it should produce a biogas yield of at least 80% of its theoretical
maximum yield [24]. Similarly, Holliger et al., [9] stated the positive control should achieve at least
85% of the theoretical BMP. Although controls are necessary to provide verification of the accuracy of a
BMP method, they are uncommon in BMP papers [25].

2.2. BMP Bottle Environment

It is important to maintain consistent environmental conditions for the microbiology and
biochemistry for anaerobic digestion to maximize the chances for achieving optimum performance [5,6].
As stated by Parkin and Owen [7], to ensure efficient digester operation, a balance between the
acid-forming and hydrogen-forming bacteria and the methane producers must be maintained.
In situations where environmental conditions are nonuniform or unstable the final BMP value can be
significantly underestimated. For BMP tests there must be (1) a temperature-controlled environment,
(2) proper mixing, and (3) sufficient incubation time for the degradation of biodegradable material.

2.2.1. Temperature
Temperature influences the growth rate and metabolism of micro-organism and the population
dynamics in the anaerobic reactor, but also effects factors such as gas transfer rates and settling
characteristics of biological sludges. Most anaerobic digesters are operated in either mesophilic
(30–38 ◦ C) or thermophilic (50–58 ◦ C) temperature ranges. Thermophilic digestion is faster than
mesophilic digestion since the biochemical reaction rates increase with increasing temperature.
Additional advantages are increased solids reduction, improved dewatering, and increased destruction
of pathogenic organisms [26]. But the use of thermophilic temperatures has a higher energy requirement,
a lower quality supernatant with large quantities of dissolved solids, a higher odour potential and
much poorer process stability [27]. It is preferred that the temperature of the BMP bottles is the
same as the inoculum originating digester. The majority of data in experiments performed at
mesophilic temperature, with only some at thermophilic [25]. BMP vessels should be incubated in a
temperature-controlled environment with maximum variations of ± 2 ◦ C [9].
Water 2019, 11, 921 4 of 29

2.2.2. Mixing
Mixing influences the distribution of microorganism, nutrients, substrate, alkalinity and the release
of gas bubbles trapped in the digester content and prevention of sedimentation of a particulate material
and evening out temperature distribution in the digester [7,28–31]. In the case where there is inadequate
mixing, inhibition can arise due to the accumulation of toxic metabolic byproductions [29,32]. So far,
there remains no optimum mixing pattern for BMP test [32]. Wang et al. [30] studied the influences of
no mixing, shaking in a water bath, manually shaking once per day, automated unidirectional and
bidirectional mixing for BMP tests. In the experiment, results were found to be dependent on the
sludge rheology. When the sludge has a viscous content (12–22 Pa·s at 20 s−1 ), the highest methane
potential and highest maximal daily specific methane production was obtained at the highest mixing
intensity [30]. On the other hand, slight stirring or natural movement by the biogas may be enough to
avoid inhibition by-productions for sludge with low total solids. The authors further reported that no
mixing or manually shaking once per day may be sufficient if the digester content is dilute or easily
degraded [30]. However, as a general observation that mixing lacks precision, the mixing condition
with BMP tests should try and replicate the basic fluid dynamics of large-scale reactors. Most full-scale
reactors are mixed to some extent to reduce solid retention time (SRT) and to release entrained methane.

2.2.3. Incubation Time

Solid retention time (SRT) is regarded as the most important parameter for anaerobic digester
design and operation [7]. SRT accurately defines the relationship between the bacterial system and
digester operation conditions. Hydrolysis, fermentation and methanogenesis are directly related to
the SRT, where an increase or decrease in SRT results in an increase or decrease in the extent of each
reaction. As the objective is to determine the maximum volume of methane to be generated from a
substrate, the longer the SRT the higher the overall methane production and reduction of biodegradable
material. The challenge for the operator has often been selecting an optimal SRT for a substrate that is
long enough to ensure efficient conversion of complex organic matter to methane and carbon dioxide,
but under time restrictions. In literature reported incubation times range from 30 to over 100 days [25].
These recommendations should only be used as guides. If the daily methane production over three
consecutive days is <1% of the cumulated methane production, the test could be finished sooner [33].

2.3. BMP Bottle Contents

2.3.1. Inoculum
Inoculum supplies the microorganism to the anaerobic digestion process, and is one of the
most important BMP factors with origin, time of sampling and concentration having the ability to
significantly influence results [25,34,35]. Throughout literature there is great variability in the inoculum
used in BMP tests, originating from sources such as sewage sludge digesters, agricultural biogas plants
and biowaste treatment plants [34,36–38]. Recently, there have been comprehensive studies on the
effects of the selection of different inoculums. Most protocol studies state that differently sourced
inoculum can lead to different substrate biodegradabilies and flawed data, due to different bacterial
population, substrate adaption, and initial microorganism activities [19,36,39,40]. There seems to be a
collective conclusion that when selecting inoculum, priority should be the source already adapted
to the substrate. The most commonly recommended being the anaerobic digestate from wastewater
treatment plants due to the full range of diverse and active microorganisms [19,25].
Part of the standardization of inoculum involves a quality check to indicate whether the operational
parameters of the digester are of good quality (see Table 1). The most common recommendation is
to pre-incubate the inoculum for 1 to 5 days at 35 ◦ C to degas and reduce the impact of its methane
production. Elbeshbishy et al. [40] studied the influence of inoculum pre-incubation and found no
significant difference in methane yield or biodegradability compared to non-incubated inoculum,
except for higher maximum methane production rates using fresh inoculum at all substrate to inoculum
Water 2019, 11, 921 5 of 29

ratios (SIR). Holliger et al. [9] stated that the decision should be based on whether the inoculum has a
low endogenous methane yield (~50 NmL CH4 /g VS). In cases where the total methane production from
the blank contributes more than 20% of the total methane production, pre-incubation for exhausting
the inoculum might be needed [9].

Table 1. Recommended inoculum conditions for BMP tests.

Parameter Recommended Range Units Reference

Active digester treating
Origin Source — [9,19,35,40,41]
municipal wastewater sludge
pH 7 ≤ x ≤ 8.5 — [9]
VFA <1 g CH3 COOH/L [9]
NH4 <2.5 g NH4 /L [9]
Alkalinity >1.5 g CaCO3 /L [9]
Concentration 15 to 20 g VS/L [9]
Storage 1 to 5 days at 25 ◦ C — [40]
Methane Yield ~ 50 NL CH4 / g VS [9]

2.3.2. Substrate
Due to the unpredictable diversity of acceptable substrates and their origins, there are few exact
chemical and physical property requirements (see Table 2). Wang [42] recommended that samples
should have particle sizes less than 10 mm in any dimension. Substrates should also be analyzed for
total solid (TS), volatile solid (VS), volatile fatty acid (VFA), total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), ammonium
and alkalinity concentrations to design the tests and eliminate potential inhibition problems. In
addition, the German standard (VD1 4630) recommended that substrate concentrations should be
around 10 g VS/L, when inoculum concentrations are between 1.5 and 2% to achieve inoculum to
substrate ratio of 2 [25].

Table 2. Recommended substrate conditions for BMP tests.

Factors Recommendation Reference

Particle Size <10 mm [18]
Concentration 10 VS g/L [35]
TS, VS, pH, VFA, TKN, NH4,
Compulsory Parameters [9]
ALK, COD

Wang [42] found the measured methane yield might vary with substrate concentration. In the
case of substrates with high concentrations, there is the possibility of overloading the digester, leading
to inhibition due to the accumulation of intermediate production. Wang [42] proposed two solutions
to minimize the effect of high substrate concentration. One involves lowering the SIR to a more
realistic relationship between the sample and the microbial population, as might be found in a full-scale
anaerobic digester (hydraulic loading rate/organic loading rate). Option two, requires the dilution
of the substrate. Although as shown in Wang [42], the dilution of inoculum or a substrate should be
avoided as it might induce underestimations of the methane potential. In Wang [42] experiment the
authors used microcrystalline cellulose as the substrate (96.1% VS) and anaerobic inoculum from a
mesophilic sewage treatment plant. The BMP of the substrate was then evaluated at increasing VS
loads, from 1g VS (2.5 g VS substrate/L) to 6 g VS (15 g VS substrate/L). For each substrate load, three
samples were run, one with a dilution using distilled water, a dilution using nutrient/ buffer solution,
and no dilution. Results showed that the methane potential (NmL CH4 /g VS) increased with the VS
load. The authors noted that if the substrate concentration is too low, there is a possibility of low
quantities of gas production due to the low metabolic activity of the microorganism resulting in low
methane yield.
Water 2019, 11, 921 6 of 29

2.3.3. Nutrients
Optimal operation of biogas digesters requires balanced concentrations of C:N:P:S (~600:15:5:1),
macronutrients (K, Na, Ca and Mg), trace metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, B, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Se, Al, W and V) and
vitamins to support microbial growth [43]. In BMP tests, any lack can have inhibitory effects [18,44].
Examples of BMP nutrients solutions can be found at Rozzi and Remigi [35], Owen et al. [12], and
Angelidaki et al. [18].
In most cases, it is unclear whether BMP tests will have sufficient nutrients available from
the sludge and substrate or if additional supplements are necessary. In some cases, nutrients
supplementation can be avoided when the seed is suspected of having enough nutrients and the
seed volume can prevent reactor acidification [33]. Wang et al. [42] studied the impact of a BMP set
using no dilution, distilled water and nutrient/buffer solution on methane yield and degradation rate.
Positive effects on degradation rate was found when nutrients were added, but regarding the final
methane yield calculation there were minor differences in comparison to the strong effects of the choice
of substrate concentration. In the situation where, digested sewage sludge is the inoculum, nutrient
supplementation could be exempted. As stated by Shelton and Tiedje [45], digestate is likely to have
all mineral and metal nutrients in amply supply (except for potassium, ammonium and cobalt), and
the addition of excessive nutrients could be inhibitory.

2.4. BMP Testing Monitoring

2.4.1. Biogas Monitoring

As the organic material in the substrate is degraded through a series of complex microbiological
processes, biogas is continually produced during incubation until there is no biodegradable material
left. Since biogas production is the key factor to determine the methane potential and biodegradability
of a substrate, it is important for the BMP method to both collect the biogas without significant losses or
error and apply correction factors to convert the observed methane potential to standard temperature
and pressure conditions for standardized results [46]. Techniques for measuring the rate and volume
of biogas produced from anaerobic biodegradability assays include: lubricated syringes, volume
displacement devices, pressure manometers or transducers, manometer assisted syringes, or low
flow pressure.
(1) Syringe Method
In the case of syringe method, a glass syringe is inverted straight into the lid of the reactor. The
overpressure inside the reactor pushes the piston until there is balanced in the pressure buildup to
atmospheric pressure [8]. The volume of biogas can be read off the syringe. The gas can be injected
back into the bottle or wasted. An added advantage of venting the biogas produced is that headspace
pressures and the carbon dioxide solubility in the bioreactor vessel can be kept to a minimum.
However, this method, due to its manual operation has potential areas for human error. In most
cases, the incubated bottles are removed from the temperature-controlled environment during the
measurement of gas. This change of temperature can easily affect the equilibrium between the gas
and liquid phase which can result in the change in headspace gas concentration and microbiology of
anaerobic digestion [47].
(2) Liquid Displacement
In the volumetric methods, the produced biogas can move into an external collection system that
measures the volume. In liquid displacement, a vessel is filled with a barrier solution and inverted in
a reservoir. As biogas is produced, it passes through the liquid vessel and displaces an equivalent
liquid volume. A prevent issue with this method is the dissolution of CO2 into the barrier solution.
Different setups use different liquids such as tap water, oil, acidified water and carbonated water, but
each need to use different correction factors [47]. Gas solubility errors can be eliminated by collecting
Water 2019, 11, 921 7 of 29

gas in a gas bag and measuring the gas volume with liquid column meters. Zaman [33] recommended
using a suitable barrier solution to avoid CO2 diffusion, such as highly acidic or saline. The use of
displacement gasometers requires that measurements taken directly from the gas column (liquid levels,
pressure) are used to calculate gas volumes. As well as adjusting to STP, it is also necessary to consider
the vapour content and correct for any hydrostatic pressure on the gas [15].
Pham et al. [15] compared the intermittent measurements with syringe (1000 mL), intermittent
measurements with liquid replacement system (LRS), and continuous measurements with liquid
replacement (CLRS). All three techniques were used for the VD1 batch fermentation method of pig
manure, cow manure, cellulose and inoculum samples. In the case of cellulose, CLRS, LRS, and the
syringe determined the methane yield to be 537.79 ± 9.10 NL/kg VS, 571.36 ± 10.24 NL/kg VS, and
583.76 ± 5.94 NL/kg VS. The results showed that the liquid replacement system had a tendency for
higher gas volume measurements than the syringe and CLRS methods. The reason could be that the
syringe plunger was not withdrawn far enough to get the total production in each test and left a higher
pressure in the headspace, or that in the case of the CLRS method there were small leaks in the setup, as
the biogas is contained not only in the digester but also through the whole water replacement system.
However, the difference in the gas volumes obtained using three different measurement techniques
were much less than the differences caused by different fermentation procedures and gas measurement
techniques [15]. Therefore, the authors concluded that the differences between the tested methods
were not significant.
(3) Manometric
Manometric methods using the pressure transducer require the pressure to build up inside the
reactor. This method is easier to perform than the liquid displacement but requires more effort in the
test setup, and depending on the gas to liquid ratio, accuracy can be sensitive to the gas non-ideal
behaviour, change in gas space volume during the test, dissolution of methane and CO2 in the
liquid [35]. Zaman [33] stated that the main drawback of the manometric approach is that variation
in the pressure of the headspace gases alters the quantity dissolved in the liquid phase, especially
carbon dioxide.
Manometric and volumetric biogas measurement techniques were compared by Raposo et al. [34]
in an inter-laboratory study on methane produced by cellulose. In the inter-laboratory study
19 laboratories participated. Volumetric methods were used most (63%), followed by manometric
methods (26.3%) and by GC methods (10.5%). Laboratories using manometric method reported
lower methane yield for cellulose than those using volumetric BMP methods [24]. Similar results
were found Himanshu et al. [24] in a review of Logan et al. [48] who reported a lower biogas yield
with a manometric method compared to a variation of the volumetric method [24]. Although the
measurement of the biogas production using a pressure transducer as the detector is easier and more
reliable than the liquid displacement, errors related to CO2 solubility in the bioreactor liquid can still
lead to underestimation of biogas production if not accounted for [49].
(4) Biogas Composition Monitoring
Methane production, as a process performance indicator is one of the most sensitive since it is
directly related to organic matter destruction. Typical values of percent methane for digesters operating
on municipal wastewater sludges are 60–75%. During system imbalance, methane production and
total gas production will decrease, while the percent CO2 will increase [7]. Gas chromatography
(GC) is often used for its high resolution, high sensitivity and quantitative results, to measure the
content of methane and carbon dioxide in a biogas sample [11]. However, as found by Parajuli [47],
varying temperatures and water vapour content in the biogas sample can cause measurement errors.
Parajuli [47] studied three potential temperature difference between the sampled biogas and standard
calibration gas. The samples were humidified in comparison to dry standard. In the temperature and
dry and humidified biogas measurement tests, a synthetic gas of 50% CH4 and CO2 were measured
Water 2019, 11, 921 8 of 29

at temperature 5 ◦ C, 25 ◦ C, 55 ◦ C and 70 ◦ C using a calibration standard at 23 ◦ C. At 35 ◦ C, the

concentration of 50% CO2 and CH4 was 52.1% for dry gas and 53.4%, respectively. At 55 ◦ C the results
were 56.9% and 58.8%. Ideally, the best solution would be to use a vapour saturated standard, but this
would be laborious and time consuming. The author found that rapid injection of samples without
delay and the use of insulated syringe would give more precise results.
An alternative to the GC to measure CH4 in biogas can be determined by the liquid replacement
method [11,15]. Pham et al., [15] compared the measured CH4 concentration using liquid replacement
method (LRM) and a GC. The LRM generally had higher CH4 concentrations (68%) in comparison to
the GC (64.94%). The authors stated that due to the very low differences, the LRM could be a viable
alternative for measuring biogas content for laboratories with limited access to expensive equipment.

2.4.2. Liquid Monitoring

Measurement of the physical and chemical composition of the digested liquid can be carried
out regularly to monitor the digester environment and performance. Imbalanced digestion can be
triggered by changes in organic or hydraulic loading, changes in organic feed characteristics, changes
in temperature, or introduction of toxic substances. During imbalanced digestion, typically volatile
acid concentrations increase while bicarbonate alkalinity, pH, gas production, percent methane, and
the destruction of organic matter all decrease. Careful monitoring of these variables should allow
operations personnel to observe the onset of stress and take appropriate remedial measures to prevent
system failure.
To monitor the changes in concentrations of these liquid phase parameters, it is necessary to set
up a certain number of “sacrifice bottles” in BMP tests. These extra bottles (identical to the blank and
substrate sets) can be sacrificed by being periodically opened throughout the experiment period to
provide samples for the liquid phase parameter measurement. For instance, due to the nature of the
methane yield first order curve, the start-up period often slows/ends after 10–12 days before plateauing.
Therefore, the operator might place extra bottles could be taken out at the initial start, after 5, 10, 15,
and 30 days for analysis. Monitoring liquid phase parameters (TCOD, sCOD, VFA, total NH3 nitrogen,
TKN, TN, TP, PO4 -P, pH, alkalinity, TS, VS, TSS, VSS, EPS components of proteins, carbohydrates,
and humic acids, etc.) could allow the operator to assess the performance of the anaerobic digestion
process, determine reaction stability, and identify potential inhibitory factors [7].
(1) pH
A narrow operating range of 6.5–7.6 is often recommended, since pH influences the microorganism
enzymes and can change their configurations and influence the kinetics of the reactions [7,8]. A low
pH can bring about an accumulation of VFA, which inhibits digestion [7,19]. This can occur when a
substrate with sufficient inhibiting substances (NH3 , H2 S and heavy metals) is added into the serum
bottle, or when bottles are exposed to transient temperature changes [8,20]. As a result, unstable
operations can develop as the VFA production rate exceeds the methanogenic VFA utilization rate.
As the pH lowers, the VFA utilization kinetics and methanogenic activity decreases: advancing VFA
accumulation, inhibiting methane production and resulting in a process failure [8]. Both methane
and carbon dioxide content can be used as indicators of an upset. Typically, the methane content of
biogas is in the range from 60 to 75% with carbon dioxide comprising the remainder. Large decreases
outside this range could indicate a failing test. A high pH, on the other hand, can be inhibiting due to
concentrations of free ammonia (FA) and ammonium ions. FA has been suggested to play a major
role in inhibition because it can freely pass through the membrane of the microorganisms and diffuse
into the cell, leading to proton imbalance and potassium deficiency [31,50]. Ammonia concentration
(NH3 -N) of less than 200 mg/L are beneficial for the AD process as it is an essential nutrient [31].
According to Parkin and Owen [7], researchers suggest that FA concentrations above 100 mg/L can
cause toxicity.
 Water 2019, 11, 921 9 of 29

Water 2019, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 30

Normally, an alkalinity in the range of 2000 to 3500 mg/L as CaCO3 is needed to maintain the pH
at Sacrifice
neutral. Inbottles can tests,
the BMP also provide insight of
the production into
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reduceof the
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is the primary
objective of anaerobic digestion. Therefore, COD and VS must be measured to determine
that have a high protein contents, there will be less likely to see a significant drop in pH in BMP. the overall
process efficiency. Monitoring physical properties of wastewater is important to assess the reusability
of (2)
theMonitoring
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determine the Reductions
most suitable type of process for its treatment. As shown in
Figure 1, TS, VS, TSS and VSS measured over 30 into
Sacrifice bottles can also provide insight daystheforkinetics
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reaction could
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Figure 1, TS, VS, TSS and VSS measured over 30 days for both blank and test bottles could provide in effective SRT)
and may help
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parameter has thedetrimental effects if the monitoring is frequent enough [7].
greatest reduction.

Control (Raw Sludge) Pre-treated sludge Blank

13
Volatile Solid Concentration (g/L)

12

11

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7
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Incubation Time (Days)
Figure 1. Example of solids reduction measurements during 30-day BMP test.

But as an indicator
Figure of imbalanced
1. Example digestion,
of solids reduction organicduring
measurements matter destruction
30-day BMP test.is not a sensitive
measurement of process imbalance. It will only confirm what trends VA, pH, TALK and methane
(3)production
Mass Balance
have already shown. Frequent monitoring of influent COD and VS levels may help
determine
COD massif system
balancesimbalance
can assistwas caused byresults
in validating increased organic them
and making loading (reduction
comparable in effective
[51]. COD mass SRT)
and may help to predict and minimize detrimental effects if the monitoring is frequent
balances can be carried out because COD is not destroyed but re-disturbed in anaerobic digestion. enough [7].
Theoretically, the COD in the influent is equal to the COD leaving the system, which occurs through
(3) Mass Balance
effluent, methane generation or incorporated into new bacterial mass [52].
COD mass balances can assist in validating results and making them comparable [51]. COD mass
CODbecause=COD
balances can be carried out COD is not destroyed
+ COD +butCOD (1)
re-disturbed in anaerobic digestion.
Theoretically,
The methane theCOD
CODcan
in the influent is using
be calculated equal the
to the COD leaving
empirical the system,
relationship, wherewhich
1 kg occurs
COD canthrough
be
effluent, methane generation or incorporated into new bacterial mass [52].
converted into 0.35 m CH4, and the COD difference between the COD influent and COD effluent [52]
3

(see Equations (1) and (2)). However, the COD mass balances of a reactor will not be 100%. If the
CODinfluent = CODeffluent + CODgas + CODsludge (1)
liquid COD measurements are accurate, the gap between could provide insight into the amount of
newly grown and entrapped biomass [51]. But to complete a perfect COD mass balance is difficult in
The methane COD can be calculated using the empirical relationship, where 1 kg COD can be
accounting for fates of COD in the anaerobic digestion process and potential errors in measuring the
converted into 0.35 m3 CH4 , and the COD difference between the COD influent and COD effluent [52]
COD in the anaerobic liquid.
(see Equations (1) and (2)). However, the COD mass balances of a reactor will not be 100%. If the
liquid COD measurements mare accurate,
m CH4
the gap between could kgprovide insight into the amount of
V = 0.35 × (CODi − CODe) ×Q (2)
newly grown and entrapped kg COD
d biomass [51]. m COD mass balance is difficult in
But to complete a perfect

There are various fractions in the anaerobic digestion process contributing to a gap in the COD
balance. Lier et al. [52] reported the relative importance of the indicated COD fraction in influent,
effluent, sludge, and biogas in terms of soluble organic/inorganic, suspended organic/inorganic,
absorbed, entrapped CH4, H2, H2S, N2 and newly grown biomass. The authors discussed two
Water 2019, 11, 921 10 of 29

accounting for fates of COD in the anaerobic digestion process and potential errors in measuring the
COD in the anaerobic liquid.

m3 m3 CH4
! !
kg
V = 0.35 × (CODi − CODe) ×Q (2)
d kg COD m3

There are various fractions in the anaerobic digestion process contributing to a gap in the COD
balance. Lier et al. [52] reported the relative importance of the indicated COD fraction in influent,
effluent, sludge, and biogas in terms of soluble organic/inorganic, suspended organic/inorganic,
absorbed, entrapped CH4 , H2 , H2 S, N2 and newly grown biomass. The authors discussed two
frequently cited causes for the COD gap. One occurs when there is a “loss of electrons” to oxidise
anions like SO4 2− and NO3 − , and the other is when COD is entrapped or accumulates in the sludge
bed. The latter situation occurs when the wastewater being treated had a high fat or long-chain fatty
acid (LCFA) content. In these situations, the combination of high measured COD removal efficiency
but low methane production rates could lead to large gaps in the COD balance, indicating long-term
operational problems [52].
Moreover, there remains a question of the accuracy of COD measurements for solid and liquid
samples with high suspended solid content in anaerobic research. Raposo et al. [34] stated, directly
measuring COD is thought to produce erroneous results. Angelidaki and Sanders [11] listed possible
reasons that might cause problems during COD measurements as (1) volatile straight-chain aliphatic
compounds are not oxidized to any appreciable degree, (2) aromatic carbohydrates, and some aromatic
heterocyclic compounds are not oxidized, (3) NO2 -2 exerts a COD of 1.1 mg/mg NO2 -N, and (4)
reduced inorganic compounds such as ferrous iron, sulphide, manganese are oxidized quantitatively
under the species [11]. In 2008, the first Proficiency Test (PT) of COD was completed with 26 labs from
16 countries to measure the COD of two solid samples and two high concentrated suspended solid
samples [53]. All participants used potassium dichromate as the oxidant reagent but with different
experimental procedures. Out of the total participants reporting data (26 labs), 36% of results were
satisfactory, 9% doubtful, and 5% unacceptable. Only two labs (8% of participants) reported the
four samples adequately. The short-term conclusion was that solid samples and liquid samples with
high solid concentration could not be analyzed accurately. A second PT was carried out in 2009. In
comparison with the previous results, the overall performance improved by 30%, respectively [54].
Raposo et al. [54] interpreted it as a sign of general improvement, and possible to accurately measure
the COD of difficult samples with acceptable quality. Despite the sensitivity of obtaining perfect mass
balance results, COD mass balances should be developed. They can still be useful trouble shooting
tools for new laboratories starting conventional BMP tests.

2.5. Data Quality and Reporting

2.5.1. Complexity of Methane Correction

Standardized accumulated methane volume measurements are important for reliable and
comparable BMP and rate constant values. But corrections of methane volumes to standard conditions
are often poorly communicated in published experiments. This often involves uncertainty due to
the missing information about emerging factors such as temperature, pressure, water vapour and
headspace composition. According to Strömberg et al. [10], most scientific papers in the field of
anaerobic digestion simply quote gas production volumes without mentioning any corrections applied
to standard conditions. Strömberg et al. [10] completed a short literature study on gas normalisation of
23 papers (exclusively on the digestion of cattle manure). One out of the 23 correctly accounted for
temperature, pressure and water vapour. Eight reported a correction for temperature and pressure but
not water vapour, and seven were missing correction information.
The main confusion for researchers converting methane volumes could be focused on two factors:
(1) confusion about which standard reference conditions to adopt, and (2) confusion about which
Water 2019, 11, 921 11 of 29

correction equation to use depending on the type of biogas monitoring technique. As stated by
Parajuli [47], there is an issue when there are different standard reference conditions. For example, the
National Institute of Standards and Technology uses 101.325 kPA and 20 ◦ C, while the International
Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry uses 100 kPA and 0 ◦ C [47]. But also selecting from the variety
of correction equations reported in literature for syringe (Equation (3)), liquid displacement (Equation
(4)) and manometer (Equation (5)). The major difference between each technique being the decision to
adjust for water vapour, include overestimate correction factors, or which order in which equation to
adjust for temperature and pressure. Until there is clarity about a single method, or clarity of conversion
for each of the three methods, there may always be some question about the validity of methane
corrections. It is estimated that in the future, this area will be central for the standardized method.
Syringe Method [55]:

%CH4 , t %CH4 , t − %CH4 , t − 1

VCH4 ,t = Vbiogas,t × + Vh × (3)
100 100
Liquid Displacement Method [10]:
! ! !
Pvap, i Pgas, i TSTP
Vacc,i = Vacc,i + (VM − VOE, i) × 1 − × × (4)
Pgas, i PSTP Tgas, i

Manometer Method [56]:

   %CH4 dry,current   Tstp
  %CH4dry,previous 
TSTP
VCH4 ,t = Vheadspace × T + Vbiogas,STP × 100 − Vheadspace × T × 100 (5)

2.5.2. Methane Curve Interpretation

Understanding the meaning of the methane yield curve could provide the operator insight into
the rate limiting step of the test material during anaerobic digestion (see Figure 2). As stated by Remigi
and Buckley [8], there are four possible interpretations of a methane yield curve of the test material.
Curve 1, the test material is readily biodegradable. Biogas and methane are immediately produced,
and the methane yield curve quickly levels off. Curve 2, the test material is biodegradable after a
lag phase. A lag phase could indicate hydrolysis as the rate limiting step in the anaerobic digestion
process. Curve 3, the test material is inhibitory in the initial phase of incubation. In this case, the test
material contains toxic substances that are inhibiting the microorganisms, causing the test material
methane production to be lower than the blank. For this reason, when the methane is subtracted from
the blank, the methane yield becomes negative. Curve 4, the test material is inhibitory throughout the
entire period of incubation. The test material contains toxic substances inhibiting methane bacteria and
hydrogen producing and consuming bacteria. No methane is produced in comparison to the blank
which is slowly producing methane. Therefore, as the test continues and the substrate bottles continue
to no produced biogas, the methane yield becomes increasingly negative.
material methane production to be lower than the blank. For this reason, when the methane is
subtracted from the blank, the methane yield becomes negative. Curve 4, the test material is inhibitory
throughout the entire period of incubation. The test material contains toxic substances inhibiting
methane bacteria and hydrogen producing and consuming bacteria. No methane is produced in
comparison
Water 2019, 11, to
921the blank which is slowly producing methane. Therefore, as the test continues and the
12 of 29
substrate bottles continue to no produced biogas, the methane yield becomes increasingly negative.

Curve 1 Curve 2 Curve 3 Curve 4

400

Methane Yield (NmL CH4/g VS)

350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
-50 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
-100
Time (days)

Figure 2. Example of different methane yield curves for four different test materials.
Figure 2. Example of different methane yield curves for four different test materials.
2.5.3. Kinetics

2.5.3. BMP kinetic rate constant (k) provides useful information of degradation kinetics of materials to
Kinetics
achieve optimal design and operation of anaerobic digesters. But finding the correct value is difficult
BMP kinetic rate constant (k) provides useful information of degradation kinetics of materials to
to achieve, as it is more sensitive to the experimental conditions than the methane yield [57,58]. In
achieve optimal design and operation of anaerobic digesters. But finding the correct value is difficult
published literature, many kinetic models have been used to describe the methane production of BMP
to achieve, as it is more sensitive to the experimental conditions than the methane yield [57,58]. In
tests (first order rate model, Monod type model, modified Gompertz model, a combination of two first
published literature, many kinetic models have been used to describe the methane production of BMP
order rate models, Chen and Hashimoto model) (see Equations (6)–(10)).
tests (first order rate model, Monod type model, modified Gompertz model, a combination of two
First order rate model:
first order rate models, Chen and Hashimoto model) (see Equations (6)–(10)).
(t) = BMP
BMPmodel:
First order rate ∞×=
BMP(t) (1 BMP −k(1×−t)))
− exp(× exp(−k × t))) (6)(6)
×
Monod Type Model: Monod Type Model: BMP(t) = (7)
×
BMPmax k × t
BMP(t) = (7)
k×t+1
Modified Gompertz model:

um e
 
BMP(t) = BMP∞ × exp − exp [ (λ − t) + 1] (8)
A

A combination of two first order rate models:

BMP(t) = BMP∞ (1 − X × exp(−k1 × t) − (1 − X) × exp(−k2 × t)) (9)

Chen and Hashimoto Model:

!
k
BMP(t) = BMP∞ ( 1 − (10)
HRT × µm + k − 1

Determination of Kinetic Constant

Currently, there is no standardized model to apply to all BMP results. The variability of the
selection of the model is based on the substrates used. There are some common models that are more
accurate and applicable than others [59]. Kafle and Chen [60] compared the first order model, to the
modified Gompertz model and Chen and Hashimoto model. The first order model showed better
fit than the modified Gompertz, but when a lag phase was reported the modified Gompertz model
better predicted the BMP compared to the first order. Strömberg et al. [61] evaluated of six different
kinetic models (first order rate model, a first order rate model with variable order of time dependency,
a combination of two first order rate models, a Monod type model, a quadratic Monod type model and
Water 2019, 11, 921 13 of 29

a modified Gompertz model) in predicting the final BMP and test time. The Monod type, quadratic
model and first order had positive effects on BMP predictions. While the first order, two combined
first order and the modified Gompertz had negative impacts. Chao et al. [62] compared the first order
model, modified first-order model and the Gompertz model to fit the BMP curve of wheat straw,
separated stem. The modified first-order model had the highest simulation precision, while the first
order model had the lowest precision. The maximum BMP value simulated by the Gompertz was the
closest among the three models. As a generalization, the first order model is used for fast and abruptly
stopping degradation, Monod model better describes the slowly declining gas production at the end of
the process, the combination of two first order equations are used when a substrate has two separate
degradation profiles, the modified Gompertz equation can be used when a lag phase is present.
It is difficult to compare kinetic constants due to the complex nature of each individual experimental
setup (particle size, origin of inoculum, mixing rate and temperature). One of the most studied aspects
of influence being the SIR. Multiple studies have shown the variability of kinetic constants of BMP
methane production with the substrate to inoculum ratio (Hashimoto [63] with ball-milled straw,
Raposo et al. [64] with sunflower oil cake and Moset et al. [65] for maize.). In most cases, high
hydrolysis rates were reached in anaerobic biodegradability tests with a low SIR, showing a degree of
dependence of hydrolysis to inoculum concentration and activity. As stated above, an experiment
that choses one SIR from recommended may not be the optimal ratio for a specific substrate, possibly
underestimating the value.

2.5.4. Data Rejection and Data Reporting

Holliger et al. [9] stressed the often-unaddressed area of quality control, stating that data must
pass some quality criteria for use such as than the test results must be rejected:

1. If the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the blank or the positive control is >5%, even after
applying a statistical test to eliminate a single outlier;
2. If the RSD of a homogenous substrate is >5%, even after applying a statistical test to eliminate a
single outlier;
3. BMP of the positive control <85% or >100% of theoretical BMP.

The analysis and presentation of BMP data are one area often left partially addressed in most
standard procedures, specifically the type of equipment and applied experiment set-up, which many
times are self-developed and specific for each laboratory. Details that should be accounted for in the
final report were combined from Angelidaki et al. [18] and Holliger et al. [9]. The following details
should be presented in the final report:

1. Inoculum and substrate physiochemical characteristics;

2. Test Conditions and setup;
3. Graphs of gross methane production of the substrate batches;
4. Positive controls and blanks.

2.6. Summary
As of 2018, there continues to be a lack of standardization/universal BMP testing procedure,
limiting the comparability of results. However, BMP methods continue to evolve, and key aspects
studied to further the elimination of systematic errors. In this paper, key aspects of proposed BMP
methods were reviewed and summarized with the latest research progress to inform a simplified
serum bottle method. Updating these recommendations may increase the probability of obtaining
validated and reproducible BMP.
 As of 2018, there continues to be a lack of standardization/universal BMP testing procedure,
limiting the comparability of results. However, BMP methods continue to evolve, and key aspects
studied to further the elimination of systematic errors. In this paper, key aspects of proposed BMP
methods were reviewed and summarized with the latest research progress to inform a simplified
Water
serum 2019, 11, 921
bottle 14 of 29
method. Updating these recommendations may increase the probability of obtaining
validated and reproducible BMP.
3. BMP Serum Bottle Syringe Method for Wastewater Sludge Anaerobic Digestion Studies
3. BMP Serum Bottle Syringe Method for Wastewater Sludge Anaerobic Digestion Studies
The BMP serum bottle method was outlined in the following section to determine the key steps
The BMP serum bottle method was outlined in the following section to determine the key steps
and parameters of the BMP test to characterize methane production potential and biodegradability of
and parameters of the BMP test to characterize methane production potential and biodegradability
WWTP primary and secondary sludge (see Figure 3). Serum bottle syringe method was chosen for
of WWTP primary and secondary sludge (see Figure 3). Serum bottle syringe method was chosen for
its flexibility, quick set up and ease of use. The objective was to structure the following sections for a
its flexibility, quick set up and ease of use. The objective was to structure the following sections for a
new operator to increase the ease of starting new tests to provide insight into their anaerobic digester
new operator to increase the ease of starting new tests to provide insight into their anaerobic digester
system. This BMP serum bottle method procedure has four main components: (1) test preparation, (2)
system. This BMP serum bottle method procedure has four main components: (1) test preparation,
test start up and operation, (3) data analysis, (4) data presentation.
(2) test start up and operation, (3) data analysis, (4) data presentation.

Calculate
the volume Add Biogas
Analysis of of each components, Sampling
AD Sludge Completion
solution to flush, seal with Glass
and Test of BMP test
achieve the and store Syringe over
Material
required bottles 30 days
SIR ratio.

Figure 3. Flow diagram for BMP procedure.

Figure 3. Flow diagram for BMP procedure.
3.1. Materials
3.1. Materials
The materials required for the BMP serum bottle syringe method include:
The materials required for the BMP serum bottle syringe method include:
1. Batch anaerobic digester containers: 125 mL glass serum bottle (Wheaton: Millville, New Jersey,
1. Batch
USA) anaerobic digester
(total volume containers: 125 mL glass serum bottle (Wheaton: Millville, New Jersey,
160 mL);
2. USA) (total volume
Temperature 160 environment
controlled mL); (incubator): New Brunswick Scientific C25 Incubator Shaker
2. Temperature controlled environment
Classic (New Brunswick Scientific: (incubator):
Edison, NJ, USA);New Brunswick Scientific C25 Incubator
Shaker Classic ( New Brunswick Scientific: Edison, NJ, USA);
3. Flush gas: Pure nitrogen;
3. Flush gas: Pure nitrogen;
4. Biogas Production Measurement Device: 10–50 mL glass syringes (Cadence Science Inc.: Cranston,
4. Biogas Production Measurement Device: 10–50 mL glass syringes (Cadence Science Inc.:
RI, USA);
Cranston, RI, USA);
5. Gas Composition Analysis: Agilent 6890 GC system (Agilent Technologies Inc.: Wilmington, DE,
5. Gas Composition Analysis: Agilent 6890 GC system (Agilent Technologies Inc.: Wilmington, DE,
USA) with TCD. Argon was used as the carrier, with an inlet temperature of 200 ◦ C;
USA) with TCD. Argon was used as the carrier, with an inlet temperature of 200 °C;
6. Characterization of inoculum and substrates: Apparatus for the determination of COD, solids,
6. Characterization of inoculum and substrates: Apparatus for the determination of COD, solids,
alkalinity, and VFA.
alkalinity, and VFA.
3.2. Test Preparation
3.2. Test Preparation
Anaerobic digester, primary and secondary sludge were collected from the Guelph, Wastewater
Anaerobic digester, primary and secondary sludge were collected from the Guelph, Wastewater
Treatment Plant (GWWTP). The GWWTP is located at Guelph, Ontario, Canada and provides treatment
Treatment Plant (GWWTP). The GWWTP is located at Guelph, Ontario, Canada and provides
of domestic, commercial, institutional and industrial wastewater collected from the community of the
treatment of domestic, commercial, institutional and industrial wastewater collected from the
Guelph/Eramosa [wastewater treatment plant annual report]. The Guelph WWTP process consists of
community of the Guelph/Eramosa [wastewater treatment plant annual report]. The Guelph WWTP
preliminary screening and grit removal, primary sedimentation, extended aeration activated sludge
process consists of preliminary screening and grit removal, primary sedimentation, extended
treatment, secondary clarifications, rotating biological contactors (RBC) and sand filtration tertiary
aeration activated sludge treatment, secondary clarifications, rotating biological contactors (RBC) and
treatment, and chlorine disinfection. The typical wastewater daily average flow treated by the Guelph
WWTP is 50.02 ± 15.6 ML, which contained a cBOD5 of 193.4 ± 15.6, TSS of 257.2 ± 27.1, total
phosphorus of 5.14 ± 0.38, TKN of 38.5 ± 2.9, and NH3 -N of 22.3 ± 1.6 mg/L according to the annual
average values from 2011 to 2015, and the recorded removal efficiencies for cBOD5, TSS, TP, TKN, and
NH3 -N are around 98.8%, 99.2%, 97.0%, 95.9%, and 97.9%, respectively. The raw sludge produced
in the GWWTP is thickened in the primary clarifiers and further thickened to a sludge of 4.3% solid
content by a rotary drum thickener and send to the anaerobic digesters. The WWTP plant generated
27,529 m3 of thicken sludge per year to the anaerobic digesters which were operated at a SRT around
15 days.
Water 2019, 11, 921 15 of 29

Total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS), and mixed liquor
volatile suspended solids (MLVSS) were determined by standard methods (Method 2540-1997, and EPA
Method 160.4). Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and volatile fatty acids (VFA) of tested samples were
determined using Hach test vials (Hach, London, ON, Canada). Raw or pretreated secondary sludge
was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm, 4 ◦ C for 15 min, and the supernatant was filtered through a 0.45 um
syringe filter, and the pH of filtered sample was determined by TitraLab®870 titration workstation
(Radiometer Analytical SAS, Lyon, France).
Table 3 summarises the main characteristics of AD sludge of the Guelph WWTP for different
sampling times. The AD sludge showed a stable TS content of 19.6 ± 0.3 g/L over the sampling period,
which was very close to the annual average TS 19.5 g/L over the period of 2011 to 2015. The VS/TS and
VSS/TSS ratio of the AD sludge were determined to be 0.63 ± 0.14 and 0.70 ± 0.12, respectively. The
relative stable TS and VS/TS ratio with the AD sludge suggests that the AD digesters of the WWTP can
provide biological consistent inoculum for the sludge BMP tests. The inoculum AD sludge was stored
in 2 L sealed plastic bottles with the headspace flushed with 100% nitrogen, and kept in the incubator
at 35 ◦ C for 1 to 5 days to degas and reduce the impact of its methane production [18,34].

Table 3. Inoculum characteristics.

Parameter Units 17 May 2016 2 June 2016 7 June 2016 24 June 2016
TCOD mg/L 17,160 ± 350 18,460 ± 221 17,060 ± 222 19,000 ± 240
SCOD mg/L 250 ± 9 525 ± 0.33 546 ± 34 647 ± 20
TS g/L 19.08 ± 0.02 19.28 ± 0.16 19.74 ± 0.10 19.74 ± 0.25
VS g/L 16.05 ± 0.07 11.07 ± 0.16 10.92 ± 0.03 10.92 ± 0.12
TSS g/L 11.05 ± 0.39 18.14 ± 0.28 18.40 ± 0.19 18.40 ± 0.48
VSS g/L 9.71 ± 0.28 11.06 ± 0.18 12.17 ± 0.04 12.17 ± 0.38
ALK mgCaCO3 /L 4825 ± 19 5867 ± 95 5187 ± 173 4772 ± 160
pH — 7.7 ± 0.1 7.6 ± 0.1 7.4 ± 0.1 7.6 ± 0.1

Primary and secondary sludge were passed through a 4.75 mm sieve to remove any large
particles and analyzed to determine total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), total suspended solids (TSS),
volatile suspended solids (VSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD) according Standard method (Method
2540-1997, and EPA Method 160.4). The characteristic parameters of the primary and secondary sludge
are shown in Table 4. Compared to the secondary sludge, the primary sludge had a much higher TCOD,
SCOD, TS, and VS contents and VS/TS ratio. The alkalinity of primary sludge was also significantly
higher than the secondary sludge.

Table 4. Substrate characteristics.

Parameter Units Primary Sludge Secondary Sludge

TCOD mg/L 47,055 ± 2991 10,670 ± 254
SCOD mg/L 1945 ± 83 58 ± 6
TS g/L 36.02 ± 0.22 10.36 ± 0.25
VS g/L 26.09 ± 0.24 6.63 ± 0.12
TSS g/L 33.57 ± 0.24 9.32 ± 0.48
VSS g/L 25.03 ± 0.17 6.55 ± 0.38
ALK mgCaCO3 /L 2333 ± 175 83.6 ± 0
pH — 6.5 7.36

3.3. Design Calculations

To make sure the BMP is carried out in conditions that are not limiting or inhibiting of the
anaerobic digestion process, each BMP test will be designed differently depending on the inoculum
and substrate concentrations. This involves adjusting both the inoculum and test material volumes
until the (1) estimated gas production, (2) substrate to inoculum ratio, (3) reactor VFA/Alkalinity Ratio,
Water 2019, 11, 921 16 of 29

and (4) headspace to total solution volume, are all balanced within their recommended parameter
ranges (see Table 5).

3.3.1. Substrate to Inoculum Ratio (SIR)

In order to find the maximum methane potential and methane production rate, the right balance
between the substrate and microorganisms are needed [66–69]. As stated by Raposo et al. [25]
theoretically, the methane yield should be independent of the SIR, and the SIR only affects the kinetics
of the methane production. However experimental data shows that SIR can have an influence on both,
due to the strong evidence that the ratio directly affects the growth patterns of microorganisms [25,70,71].
As a baseline, Owen et al. [12] first proposed, that 1 g VS substrate/g VS should be used [12,34,41].
The German standard, VDI 4630 recommended a SIR of less than 0.5 [31]. Although this provides
a useful guideline for the selection of SIR, different substrates may react differently. As stated by
Elbeshbishy et al. [40], there is a wide range of optimum SIR depending on the substrate and inoculum.
The authors investigated the influence of SIR ratios on the methane yields and kinetic constants of
the primary and secondary sludge by varying the SIR from 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 3 g substrate COD/g
inoculum VS. In these tests, the total working volumes were set to 55 mL and 60 mL for the primary
and secondary sludge BMP tests, respectively, while the volumes of the substrate and inoculum were
varied to achieve the desired SIRs. For the primary sludge tests the substrate/inoculum volumes
were 2 mL/53 mL, 7 mL/48 mL, 12 mL/43 mL,15 mL/40 mL, 23 mL/32 mL and for secondary sludge 5
mL/55 mL, 20 mL/40 mL, 30 mL/30 mL, 25 mL/35 mL, 45 mL/15 mL. The blanks were used for each
condition by replacing the substrate with the same volume of deionized (DI) water. Triplicates of BMP
bottles were used for every testing condition. Figure 4 depicts the methane production increased with
increasing SIR at a linear fashion. Based on these results, the differences in methane production were
Water 2019, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 30
due to the increase of organic matter added into the serum bottles.

0.1 0.5 1 1.5 3 0.1 0.5 1 1.5 3

Cumulative Methane (mL)
Cumulative Methane (mL)

300 300
250 250
200 200
150 150
100 100
50 50
0 0
0 10 20 30 0 10 20 30
Incubation Time (Days) Incubation Time (Days)

Figure 4. Left: Primary sludge ratio test: cumulative substrate methane production, right: secondary
Figure 4. Left: Primary sludge ratio test: cumulative substrate methane production, right: secondary
sludge ratio test: cumulative substrate methane production (where 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 3 are the g
sludge ratio
substrate test: inoculum
COD/g cumulative
VSsubstrate
ratios). methane production (where 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 3 are the g
substrate COD/g inoculum VS ratios).
Figure 5 shows the methane yield results for primary and secondary sludge. The methane yield
Figure
in the primary 5 shows
test wasthe found
methane yield
to be 481results
± 1, 470for
± primary
1, 495 ± 1,and
482secondary
± 1, and 470 sludge. The methane
± 1 NmL CH4 /g VS, yield
and
in the primary test was found to be 481 ± 1, 470 ± 1, 495 ± 1, 482 ± 1, and 470
corresponding biodegradability (%) of 60 ± 1, 59 ± 1, 62 ± 1, 60 ± 1, and 59 ± 1. These results were ± 1 NmL CH 4/g VS, and

corresponding
similar to thosebiodegradability
in literature. As(%) of 60
stated by± Parkin
1, 59 ± and
1, 62Owen
± 1, 60[7],± primary
1, and 59sludge
± 1. These
fromresults were
the primary
similar to those in literature. As stated by Parkin and Owen [7], primary sludge
clarifier is comprised of natural fibers, fats and other solids and has a high biodegradability (69%), from the primary
clarifier
reporting is typical
comprised of in
values natural fibers,
literature fats andreduction
of 40–60% other solids and and
in COD has 40–70%
a high biodegradability
reduction in VS [7]. (69%),
The
reporting typical values in literature of 40–60% reduction in COD and 40–70%
methane yield of the secondary sludge was 45 ± 1, 166 ± 1, 218 ± 2, 230 ± 2, and 218 ± 1 NmL CH4 /g reduction in VS [7].
The
VS, methane yield of thebiodegradability
and corresponding secondary sludge was
(%) of 45
8 ±±0,1,29
166±±1,1,39
218± ±2,2,41230
± 2,± 2,
andand39218
± 2,± for
1 NmL CH40.5,
SIR 0.1, /g
VS, and corresponding biodegradability (%) of 8 ± 0, 29 ± 1, 39 ± 2, 41 ± 2, and
1, 1.5, and 3. In literature secondary sludge or waste activated sludge (WAS) is reported to be half as 39 ± 2, for SIR 0.1, 0.5,
1,digestible
1.5, and 3. asInprimary
literature secondary
sludge sludge or waste activated
with biodegradability ranging fromsludge (WAS)due
30–50% is reported to be half
to the microbial as
cells
digestible as primary sludge with biodegradability ranging from 30–50% due to the microbial cells
that are often hardly biodegradable causing the degradation kinetics to act slowly [7]. It is important
to note the reduction in accuracy as the SIR decreased below 1.0, which is underestimation due to a
combination of factors. One would be due to the small volume of secondary sludge added into each
serum bottle. As the volume of the substrate was lowered, the secondary sludge had very little to
offer the micro-organism, and from having a high headspace volume in relation to the liquid volume
 Water 2019, 11, 921 17 of 29

that are often hardly biodegradable causing the degradation kinetics to act slowly [7]. It is important
to note the reduction in accuracy as the SIR decreased below 1.0, which is underestimation due to a
combination of factors. One would be due to the small volume of secondary sludge added into each
serum bottle. As the volume of the substrate was lowered, the secondary sludge had very little to offer
the micro-organism, and from having a high headspace volume in relation to the liquid volume lower
gas flows and more influence of the initial head space gas [10,42]. As stated by Elbeshbishy et al. [40],
having too low SIR may prevent induction of the enzyme necessary for biodegradation. In addition,
there is the measurement inaccuracy due to little amount of biogas produced, which would affect the
conversion and calculation of the methane yield resulting in significant underestimation. This was
observed when the total methane produced by the test bottles for 0.1 and 0.5 generated 2 and 16mL of
CH42019,
Water after11,the blank
x FOR was
PEER subtracted. In comparison, test bottles for primary sludge at 0.1 and 0.5
REVIEW with
17 of 30
the blank subtracted produced 21.1 ± 0.6 and 71 ± 2 mL CH4 .

Primary Sludge Secondary Sludge Primary sludge test Secondary sludge test

Substrate Biodegradability (%)

600 100
481 470 495 482 470
500 80
NmL CH4/ g VS

400
60
300 218 231 218
166 40
200
100 45 20

0 0
0 1 2 3 0.1 0.5 1 1.5 3
g substrate COD/ g inoculum VS g substrate COD/g inoculum VS

Figure 5. Left: Primary and secondary sludge ratio test methane yield results. Right: primary and
secondary
Figure sludge
5. Left: biodegradability
Primary results
and secondary for different
sludge ratio testSIR.
methane yield results. Right: primary and
secondary sludge biodegradability results for different SIR.
Although the most common trend reported was an overestimation of BMP values as the SIR
decreased,
Although thethe
substrates
most commonused intrendthe experiments
reported was appeared to be high of
an overestimation in BMP
organic content.
values as theInSIRthe
comparison,
decreased, theansubstrates
underestimation
used in of the BMP values could
experiments be the case
appeared to befor substrates
high withcontent.
in organic very low InCOD
the
and solid content, therefore requiring higher SIR ratios to be used than
comparison, an underestimation of BMP values could be the case for substrates with very low CODwastewater with high organic
contents.
and It is recommended
solid content, that forhigher
therefore requiring substrates withtolow
SIR ratios organic
be used content,
than with with
wastewater a history
high of being
organic
difficult to
contents. It digest, SIR shouldthat
is recommended be designed
for substratesat higher
withranges compared
low organic to substrates
content, with a with
historyhigh oforganic
being
content and readily biodegradable. In this study, SIR above 1g COD/g VS should
difficult to digest, SIR should be designed at higher ranges compared to substrates with high organic be used to determine
the BMP
content andvalues
readilyforbiodegradable.
secondary sludge, while
In this SIR SIR
study, for primary
above 1gsludge
COD/gcan VS be lowerbethan
should used 1:1,
to but it is not
determine
the BMP values for secondary sludge, while SIR for primary sludge can be lower than 1:1, but itnew
recommended. A minimum of three different substrate to inoculum ratios be tested for every is
substrate.
not Additional
recommended. tests are required
A minimum to observesubstrate
of three different the accuracy of BMP ratios
to inoculum valuesbeattested
higherforrange
everyofnew
F//M
values (>3)
substrate. to observe
Additional overloading
tests are required effects.
to observe the accuracy of BMP values at higher range of F//M
To observe the possible impacts
values (>3) to observe overloading effects. the SIR can have on measured kinetic constants, the methane yield
curves
To observe the possible impacts the analyzed.
for primary and secondary were SIR can have Theon methane
measured production rate constant
kinetic constants, the for a BMP
methane
serum
yield bottlefor
curves experiment
primary and was secondary
calculated using the following
were analyzed. Theequation,
methane where k is the
production first
rate order kinetic
constant for a
BMP serum bottle experiment was calculated using the following equation, where k is the first orderat
constant (per day), t is the digestion time (days), and BMP (∞) is the ultimate methane production
the endconstant
kinetic of the test [40].
(per day), t is the digestion time (days), and BMP (∞) is the ultimate methane
production at the end of the test BMP [40]. (t) = BMP(∞) × (1 − exp(k × t)) (11)

MATLAB was used to findBMP(t)

the value of k by minimizing
= BMP(∞) the×sum
× (1 − exp(k t)) of squared differences between
(11)
the experimental and calculated values. Figure 6 shows the kinetic modelling of the primary and
MATLAB was used to find the value of k by minimizing the sum of squared differences between
secondary sludge ratio tests. Figure 7 shows there were significant variations between the kinetic
the experimental and calculated values. Figure 6 shows the kinetic modelling of the primary and
constant values between primary and secondary tests. Both experiments k values decreased as the
secondary sludge ratio tests. Figure 7 shows there were significant variations between the kinetic
loading rates increased. Primary sludge kinetic values ranged from 0.21 to 0.51, while secondary
constant values between primary and secondary tests. Both experiments k values decreased as the
sludge ranged from 15.2 to 0.151. The kinetic constants for the secondary sludge tests below 1:1, had
loading rates increased. Primary sludge kinetic values ranged from 0.21 to 0.51, while secondary
sludge ranged from 15.2 to 0.151. The kinetic constants for the secondary sludge tests below 1:1, had
greater variation because the substrates were added in small volumes to the inoculum, and were
quickly converted to methane. As a result, the accuracy of modelling 0.1 and 0.5 SIR methane yield
curves decreased, with R2 values of 0.49 and 0.96. Kinetic values found in BMP tests should be used
Water 2019, 11, 921 18 of 29
Water 2019, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 18 of 30

greater variation because the substrates

substrates were addedbiodegradable
in small volumes to theainoculum,
SIR higherand were
Water 2019, 11, that
x FORhave a high content
PEER REVIEW of non-readily organics, than 0.5
18 of 30
quickly converted to methane. As a result, the accuracy of modelling 0.1 and 0.5 SIR methane
should be applied. But, regardless of these rules of thumb, a series of SIR for a new substrate should yield
curves decreased,
be tested in order with R2 values
to aobtain of 0.49 and 0.96. [41,68–70].
Kinetic values found in BMP tests should be used
substrates that have high acontent
reliable ofBMP values
non-readily biodegradable organics, a SIR higher than 0.5
with caution, in predicting the kinetic behaviour of continuous digesters. There is the possibility that
should be applied. But, regardless of these rules of thumb, a series of SIR for a new substrate should
basic kinetic models over-simplify the dynamics of rate-limiting step, not considering the various
be tested in order to 0.5
obtain a reliable BMP 1.5 values [41,68–70].
conditions0.1in a continues 1
digester operation 3
such as wastewater0.1 0.5
characteristics, 1
hydraulic 1.5
loading 3
[61].
600
600
0.1 0.5 1 1.5 3 0.1 0.5 1 1.5 3
Methane Yield (mL CH4/g VS)

Methane Yield (mL CH4/ g VS)

500
600 500
600
Methane Yield (mL CH4/g VS)

Methane Yield (mL CH4/ g VS)

400
500 400
500
300
400 300
400
200 200
300
300
100 100
200 200
0 0
100 100
0 10 20 30 0 10 20 30
0 Test Day Test Day
0
0 10 20 30 0 10 20 30
Test
Figure 6. Left: Primary sludge Test Day
Day ratio test kinetic modelling of methane yield, right: secondary sludge
ratio tests kinetic modelling.
Figure 6. Left: Primary sludge ratio test kinetic modelling of methane yield, right: secondary sludge
Figure 6. Left:
ratio tests Primary
kinetic sludge ratio test kinetic modelling of methane yield, right: secondary sludge
modelling.
ratio tests kinetic modelling.
Primary Sludge Test Secondary Sludge Test
1
0.8 Primary Sludge Test Secondary Sludge Test
K (per Day)

1
0.6
0.8
0.4
K (per Day)

0.6
0.2
0.4
0
0.2 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
0 Substrate/ Inoculum Ratio (g COD/ g VSS)
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
Figure 7. Relationship between methane production rate constant and substrate/inoculum ratio.
Figure 7. Relationship between methane production rate constant and
Substrate/ Inoculum Ratio (g COD/ g VSS) substrate/inoculum ratio.
There are two general rules for narrowing down the SIR selections. One is the recommendation
3.3.2.
that forManaging
Figure Potential Biogas
easily7.biodegradable
Relationship between Production
substrates where
methane rapid accumulation
production rate constant of
andfermentation intermediates
substrate/inoculum ratio. such
as VFA could inhibit
During anaerobic
the period digestion,
between the inoculumre-equilibrations
two subsequent volume should be(gas greater than the substrate
measurements and gas or
3.3.2.
SIRManaging
awasting),
less than orPotential
equal to Biogas
0.5 Production
should be applied to minimize the possibility of acidification
the serum bottles are pressurised from gas production. As shown in Figure 8, depending or inhibition
problems
on the (for
organic
During the instance
periodSIR
content of 0.5
ofbetween
the ortwo
0.25)subsequent
substrate, a[71]. The second
test with highly rule is that for
biodegradable
re-equilibrations substrates
(gassubstrate thatrequire
may
measurements have
anda high
more
gas
content of
frequent the
wasting), non-readily biodegradable
re-equilibrium/gas
serum bottles are releases organics,
than a from
pressurised a SIR higher
non-biodegradablethan
gas production. 0.5 should
substrate.
As shown be
Forinapplied.
operation But, regardless
Figure 8,purposes
depending it is
of
on these
helpful
the rules of
to predict
organic thumb, a the
series
theofestimated
content of SIR for
volumes
substrate, a new
a test substrate
ofwith
generate shouldfor
highlybiogas be scheduling
biodegradabletested in order
substrate to obtain
inspects.
may Thea COD
requirereliable
moreto
BMP
frequentvalues
methane [41,68–70].
conversion ratio, allows
re-equilibrium/gas forthan
releases the prediction of the volume
a non-biodegradable of generated
substrate. biogas. Using
For operation 1 g COD
purposes it is
= 0.395to
helpful L CH 4 for the
predict conditions
estimated at 35 °C, it isofimportant
volumes generate to balance
biogas for the liquid volumes
scheduling of The
inspects. eachCOD
solution
to
3.3.2. Managing Potential Biogas Production
added to
methane avoid the
conversion total
ratio, biogas
allows perprediction
for the day exceeding the headspace
of the volume of generatedvolume—leading
biogas. Using 1 gtoCOD
over
During
0.395 L CHthe
=pressurization 4 forperiod
and between
requiring
conditions two
35 subsequent
atincreased
°C, it is re-equilibrations
gasimportant
releases. It
toisbalance (gasliquid
recommended
the measurements
that at leastand
volumes gas wasting),
100–200
of each mL CH4
solution
the
added serum
or 250–400 bottles
mL biogas
to avoid are total
the pressurised
(assuming from
biogas 60%per CH gas4) production.
day be produced,
exceeding As
the shown for
allowing
headspace in Figure 8, depending
avolume—leading
volume toon
of 10 to 60 mL the
overof
organic
biogas content
to be of the
collected substrate,
per a test
extraction with
time. highly
This is biodegradable
important for substrate
accurate may
manual
pressurization and requiring increased gas releases. It is recommended that at least 100–200 mL CH4 require
syringemore frequent
readings and
oracquiring
250–400 enough
mL biogas biogas to be processed
(assuming 60% CHby theproduced,
4) be GC. allowing for a volume of 10 to 60 mL of
biogas to be collected per extraction time. This is important for accurate manual syringe readings and
3.3.3. Headspace
acquiring to TotaltoSolution
enough biogas Volume
be processed by the GC.

3.3.3. Headspace to Total Solution Volume

Water 2019, 11, 921 19 of 29

re-equilibrium/gas releases than a non-biodegradable substrate. For operation purposes it is helpful

to predict the estimated volumes of generate biogas for scheduling inspects. The COD to methane
Water 2019, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW
conversion ratio, allows for the prediction of the volume of generated biogas. Using 1 g COD 19 of 30
= 0.395
◦
L CH4 for conditions at 35 C, it is important to balance the liquid volumes of each solution added
The headspace is defined as the non-liquid volume in the serum bottle after filling with testing
to avoid the total biogas per day exceeding the headspace volume—leading to over pressurization
materials and inoculum. Ratios of the headspace to total bottle volume (160 mL) range from 30 to 70%
and requiring increased gas releases. It is recommended that at least 100–200 mL CH4 or 250–400
in reported BMP tests. Normally, the headspace should be larger than the expected maximum
mL biogas (assuming 60% CH4 ) be produced, allowing for a volume of 10 to 60 mL of biogas to be
produced biogas volume in the first day as it is important to avoid the bottle becoming over
collected per extraction time. This is important for accurate manual syringe readings and acquiring
pressurized due to the production of biogas and increased temperatures.
enough biogas to be processed by the GC.

Highly Biodegradable Substrate Non-biodegradable substrate

1000
Headspace pressure (mbar)

900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Time (days)

Figure 8. Example of headspace pressure releases for a highly biodegradable and

non-biodegradable substrate.
Figure 8. Example of headspace pressure releases for a highly biodegradable and non-biodegradable
3.3.3.substrate.
Headspace to Total Solution Volume

3.3.4. The headspace

Reactor is definedRatio
VFA/Alkalinity as the non-liquid volume in the serum bottle after filling with testing
materials and inoculum. Ratios of the headspace to total bottle volume (160 mL) range from 30 to
70%The VFA/alkalinity,
in reported BMP tests.as stated by Feng
Normally, the et al. [72] has
headspace threebe
should critical
largerlevels
than to
theassess
expectedthe stability
maximum of
anaerobic digestion, where (1) <0.4 stable; (2) 0.4–0.8, some instability will occur,
produced biogas volume in the first day as it is important to avoid the bottle becoming over pressurized (3) >0.8 significant
instability
due to the [72]. Therefore,
production during
of biogas and planning
increased stage, it is recommended that the operator adjust the
temperatures.
inoculum and substrate volumes for the final solution to be below the first critical level.
3.3.4. Reactor VFA/Alkalinity Ratio
3.3.5. Guideline Recommendations
The VFA/alkalinity, as stated by Feng et al. [72] has three critical levels to assess the stability of
As discussed
anaerobic digestion, inwhere
the above sections,
(1) <0.4 accurate
stable; (2) 0.4–0.8,BMP
sometests need proper
instability design
will occur, of the
(3) >0.8 testing
significant
parameters to achieve balanced acidification and methanogenesis reactions
instability [72]. Therefore, during planning stage, it is recommended that the operator adjust so that the BMP results
the
can reflect and
inoculum the substrate
ultimate volumes
methane for yield
the and
final biodegradability
solution to be below of the
the substrates.
first critical Table
level. 5 shows an
example of the design of key BMP parameters used for testing the primary and secondary sludge
3.3.5. Guideline
sampled from theRecommendations
Guelph WWTP. Since the primary and secondary sludges had different properties,
the liquid volume in
As discussed of the
theabove
seed and substrate
sections, were
accurate different
BMP for both
tests need propertests in order
design of the totesting
meet the desired
parameters
SIR. In order to determine a proper SIR for given sludge properties, as discussed
to achieve balanced acidification and methanogenesis reactions so that the BMP results can reflect in section 3.3.1,thea
series of BMP
ultimate testsyield
methane needs andto be conducted to assess
biodegradability the effect ofTable
of the substrates. SIRs 5on the methane
shows an example production. The
of the design
determination of the total and substrate volumes should consider the total
of key BMP parameters used for testing the primary and secondary sludge sampled from the Guelph biogas production (section
3.3.2),
WWTP. headspace
Since thetoprimary
total solution volume (section
and secondary sludges3.3.3), and GCproperties,
had different measurement therequirement
liquid volume (section
of the
2.4.1). The total solution alkalinity of the mixed solution or VFA/alkalinity ratio
seed and substrate were different for both tests in order to meet the desired SIR. In order to determine is important to
maintain
a proper SIR for given sludge properties, as discussed in Section 3.3.1, a series of BMP tests needs is
a stable pH condition. For the anaerobic digestion of wastewater sludge, alkalinity to
produced by breakdown of proteins to NH 3 which reacts with CO2 to form NH4+ and HCO3−. The
be conducted to assess the effect of SIRs on the methane production. The determination of the total
accumulation
and substrateof VFA inshould
volumes the BMP bottles,the
consider which
totalwill consume
biogas alkalinity
production and cause
(Section 3.3.2), pH to drop,tocould
headspace total
inhibit
solution volume (Section 3.3.3), and GC measurement requirement (Section 2.4.1). The total solution
methanogenesis reactions. As stated in section 3.3.4, it is recommended that the mixed solution
have an alkalinity
alkalinity equalsolution
of the mixed to or higher than 3 g CaCO
or VFA/alkalinity 3/L or the VFA/ALK be less than 0.4. It should be
ratio is important to maintain a stable pH condition.
kept in mind that the values shown in Table 5 are only examples we determined for the primary and
secondary sludge from the Guelph WWTP. These values may not be suitable for other substrates. The
optimal SIR, substrate/inoculum volumes, and predicted biogas production will depend on the
characteristics of the organic content of substrate.
Water 2019, 11, 921 20 of 29

For the anaerobic digestion of wastewater sludge, alkalinity is produced by breakdown of proteins to
NH3 which reacts with CO2 to form NH4 + and HCO3 − . The accumulation of VFA in the BMP bottles,
which will consume alkalinity and cause pH to drop, could inhibit methanogenesis reactions. As stated
in Section 3.3.4, it is recommended that the mixed solution have an alkalinity equal to or higher than 3
g CaCO3 /L or the VFA/ALK be less than 0.4. It should be kept in mind that the values shown in Table 5
are only examples we determined for the primary and secondary sludge from the Guelph WWTP.
These values may not be suitable for other substrates. The optimal SIR, substrate/inoculum volumes,
and predicted biogas production will depend on the characteristics of the organic content of substrate.

Table 5. BMP test design for primary and secondary sludge from the GWWTP.

Primary Sludge Test Secondary Sludge Test

Section Parameter Units Recommendations
Blank Substrate Blank Substrate
Sludge mL — 43 43 30 30
Water mL — 10 0 30 0
Volume Substrate mL — 0 10 0 30
Total Volume mL 50–120 53 53 60 60
Headspace % 30–70 67 67 63 63
Sub COD g/AD VS g — ~1 — 1.00 — 0.98
SIR
g VS/ g VS — ~0.5 — 0.50 — 0.54
Predicted Methane
Re-equilibrium mL — — 165 — 112
Gen.
Period (Assuming
Biogas Gen. mL 300–500 — 274 — 187
100% Biodegradable)
Max Biogas
mL — — 55 — 37
Production Per 5 Days
Total Alkalinity g CaCO3 /L >3 3.87 4.31 2.39 2.43
Digester Health
VFA/ALK — <0.4 0.000 0.062 0.000 0.028

3.4. Execution of BMP Syringe Test

The experimental procedure is split into three sections: (1) start-up, (2) biogas monitoring, and (3)
final testing. The start-up stage starts by heating up the seed and substrate to the working temperature.
The solution volumes determined from the test design are then added into triplicate groups of serum
bottles. The headspace of each bottle is then flushed with nitrogen, and immediately capped with
rubber stoppers and sealed with aluminum crimps to make sure the stoppers do not fall out. The bottle
are placed in the incubator and after 1 to 2 h, the gas composition of each bottle are measured to ensure
the absence of oxygen. Biogas monitoring stage consists of repeated gas sampling, gas composition
measurements and gas wasting periodically until the methane production had leveled off. This stage
usually lasts longer than 30 days. Final testing stage is the opening of the bottles and measuring the
contents for insights into the solution health, solids concentration reduction and mass balance. Table 6
outlines the key steps and the times estimates for each stage.

Table 6. Execution stages and steps for manual operation of BMP serum bottle test.

Stage Step Time Process Remarks

1 1–2 h Warm liquids to 35 ◦C Active inoculum, test material, control solution.
2 0.1 h Pour contents into vials
Start-up Every bottle’s headspace was immediately flushed with
3 0.1 h N2 Flushing
100% nitrogen gas to remove any oxygen.
Seal bottles and Store Cap bottles with rubber stoppers and sealed with an
4 0.1 h
at 35 ◦ C aluminum crimp. Place bottles in the incubator at 35 ◦ C.
5 0.1 h Re-equilibrate After 1 to 2 h and measure the gas composition.
Shake each serum bottle before the gas is vented.
Using a gas tight syringe (equipped with a valve
between the needle and opening) collect biogas from at
Biogas Monitoring 6 >30 day Biogas sampling
least two of the triplicate bottles. At least 10 mL of
biogas are needed for accurate GC measurements.
Inject the sample into the GC.
Open bottles and Stop test when the methane production has levelled off
Final Testing 7 0.5–1 day
measure contents and the gas composition is constant.
Water 2019, 11, 921 21 of 29

3.5. Data Analysis

After the methane volumes were recorded and the test had ended, the methane volumes were
converted into standard conditions (see Table 7). To standardize the BMP results, the as-measured
volumes must be converted to standard conditions (0 ◦ C at 1 atm). This involves compensating for both
volume occupied by water vapour (generates over-estimations of 2–8% in the gas volume at ambient
temperature range) and thermal expansion effects [10,73]. Normally, volumes are measured at one
atmosphere, so no pressure correction is required [73]. The biogas sampling intervals was calculated
using the following equation:
%CH4, n %CH4, n−1 T Pvap
VCH4,n (mL) = ((Vbiogas, n + Vheadspace ) × 100 ) − (Vheadspace × 100 ) × ( TSTP
gas
) × (1 − Pgas ) (12)

1730.63 )
8.1962−( Tgas−39.724
Pvap = 10 (13)

Where VCH4,n is the methane generation volume (mL) of the mixed liquor; Vbiogas,n is the biogas
generation volume (mL) of mixed liquor; Vh is the headspace volume (mL) of each BMP bottle; %CH4,n
is the current methane percentage of the generated biogas determined by GC; %CH4, n−1 is the methane
percentage of generated biogas in last sampling time point; TSTP is the standard temperature (273.15 K);
Tgas is the incubation temperature (K) for the BMP test; Pvap is the water vapour pressure (kPa); Pgas is
the pressure of the measured gas (101.325 kPa).

Table 7. Data analysis stages and steps for BMP.

Stage Step Process Remarks

Calculate the volume of methane of gas produced in
Calculate volume of
1 the interval and then calculate the cumulative net
methane of gas produced
volume of the methane produced over the test period
Calculate the methane Dividing the STP methane volume by the mass of the
Data Analysis yield and substrate’s solids added into the serum bottle. It was
2
biodegradability of test reported as mL CH4 substrate/g VS initial substrate or
material as mL CH4 substrate/g COD initial substrate.
MATLAB was used to find the value of k by
Calculate kinetic rate
3 minimizing the sum of squared differences between
constant
the experimental and calculated values
If the Relative Standard Deviation (RSD) of the blank
Check data for data
Data Rejection 4 or the positive control is >5%, even after applying a
rejection
statistical test to eliminate a single outlier

The methane yield curves were generated by dividing the normalised methane volumes by the
mass of volatile solids from the substrate added into the serum bottles. Next, the data when through a
screen process to determine if the test was accuracy. As suggested by Holliger et al. [9], the positive
control (cellulose) had a relative standard deviation below 5% and produced a methane yield that was
within 85 to 100% of its theoretical value. Now that the test had been checked and passed data rejection
stage, the final data was organized for presentation.

3.6. Data Report

Data reporting followed the recommendations of Angelidaki et al. [18]. The authors stated that
the goal for data reporting is to present a clear description of the inoculum source, substrate, test
conditions, and graphics of the specific methane production for the blank, control and substrate. Table 8
and Figure 9 provides an example used for the characterization of primary and secondary sludge using
a substrate to inoculum ratio of 1.0. In addition, the inclusion of the kinetic constant can be included as
it may provide insight into the time required to generate the ultimate methane potential [18].
Water 2019, 11, 921 22 of 29

Table 8. Example final data information for primary and secondary WWTP sludge.

Inoculum Control Primary Secondary

Data Set Parameter
(Blank) (Cellulose) Sludge Sludge
TCOD (mg/L) 19,000 ± 240 17,400 ± 165 47,055 ± 2991 10,670 ± 254
—
SCOD (mg/L) 647 ± 20 1945 ± 83 58 ± 6
—
TS (g/L) 19.74 ± 0.25 — 36.02 ± 0.22 10.36 ± 0.25
Physical and Chemical Characteristics
VS (g/L) 10.92 ± 0.12 14.00 ± 0.01 26.09 ± 0.24 6.63 ± 0.12
TSS (g/L) 18.40 ± 0.48 — 33.57 ± 0.24 9.32 ± 0.48
VSS (g/L) 12.17 ± 0.38 — 25.03 ± 0.17 6.55 ± 0.38
ALK (mg CaCO3 /L) 4772 ± 160 — 2333 ± 175 83.6 ± 0
pH 7.6 ± 0.1 7.4 ± 0.1 6.5 ± 0.1 7.1 ± 0.1

Biochemical Methane Potential Data Methane Yield (NmL

83 375 495 218
Temp: 35 ◦ C CH4 /g VS)
Mixing: Biodegradability 10% 85% 65% 38%
Water 2019,100
11,rpm Duration:
x FOR PEER30REVIEW
days 23 of 30
SIR: 1.0 Kinetic First order
0.0855 (0.994) 0.2296 (0.998) 0.3568 (0.981) 0.1406 (0.98)
constant (R2 )

Secondary Sludge Primary Sludge

600
Methane Yield (mL CH4/ g VS)

500

400

300

200

100

0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Test Day
Figure 9. Example final report methane yield graph of primary and secondary sludge from the GWWTP.
Figure 9. Example final report methane yield graph of primary and secondary sludge from the
4. Future Aspects
GWWTP.

To provide perspective, recent research areas being conducted to progress the conventional BMP
4. Future Aspects
test were reviewed. So far, these areas include (1) investigations into faster methods to predict the
BMPTo of provide perspective,
a substrate, recent
(2) the move research
towards areas being
automated BMPconducted
products toforprogress the conventional
standardization, BMP
(3) creation of
test were reviewed.
standardized inoculum,So far,
andthese
(4) theareas include
use of online (1) investigations
methane yield datainto faster
base methods
for data to predict The
harmonization. the
BMP of a substrate,
following (2)provide
section will the move towards
a brief automated
description and BMP products
discussion for standardization,
for each topic. (3) creation
of standardized inoculum, and (4) the use of online methane yield data base for data harmonization.
4.1. following
The Early Prediction of BMP
section Using Kinetic
will provide a briefModelling
description and discussion for each topic.
Long test durations are a major drawback of the BMP test. As stated by Da Silva et al. [74]
4.1.
thisEarly
factorPrediction
limits theofapplicability
BMP Using Kinetic
for waste Modelling
utilities, consulting companies and plant operations how
decision-making cannot wait
Long test durations are a30major
to 100drawback
days. Scientists are researching
of the BMP methods
test. As stated by Dato Silva
achieve faster
et al. [74]BMP
this
values, such as theoretical determinations and near-infrared spectroscopy.
factor limits the applicability for waste utilities, consulting companies and plant operations howHowever these methods
are limited in providing
decision-making cannot waitinformation
30 to 100 about the toxicology
days. Scientists and loading
are researching rate oftothe
methods substrate
achieve fasterdue
BMP to
the absence
values, such ofas atheoretical
biologicaldeterminations
anaerobic degradation process [61].
and near-infrared In addition,
spectroscopy. these approaches
However these methods are
time independent measurements and offer no information on kinetic degradation.
are limited in providing information about the toxicology and loading rate of the substrate due to the Therefore, early
prediction
absence of models basedanaerobic
a biological on the methane curves.process
degradation So far Strömberg et al. [61]these
[61]. In addition, and Da Silva et al.are
approaches [74]time
are
the most comprehensive
independent measurements studiesandto offer
provide no laboratory
information testonevidence
kineticthat shorter testTherefore,
degradation. durations could
early
be made using
prediction modelsBMP tests.on the methane curves. So far Strömberg et al. [61] and Da Silva et al. [74]
based
Strömberg
are the et al. [61], built
most comprehensive off the
studies study by
to provide Ponsá et test
laboratory al. [75] who showed
evidence it was
that shorter testpossible
durations to
statistically predict the
could be made using BMP tests.final BMP of a sample with a large enough database. The authors compiled a
data Strömberg
base of 138 et BMP tests of various substrate types, and 61 different algorithms,
al. [61], built off the study by Ponsá et al. [75] who showed it was possible to to predict the final
BMP and required
statistically predict degradation
the final BMPtime.of a The
sampleresults
withfrom the enough
a large factorialdatabase.
design experiments
The authorsshowedcompiled that
a
data base of 138 BMP tests of various substrate types, and 61 different algorithms, to predict the final
BMP and required degradation time. The results from the factorial design experiments showed that
the Monod-type, quadratic Monod-type and the first-order model with variable time dependency
were able to predict the ultimate methane yield. The statistical prediction estimated the final BMP
values and test times by cross-referencing the registered BMP profiles. In a comparison between
Water 2019, 11, 921 23 of 29

the Monod-type, quadratic Monod-type and the first-order model with variable time dependency were
able to predict the ultimate methane yield. The statistical prediction estimated the final BMP values
and test times by cross-referencing the registered BMP profiles. In a comparison between experimental
and predicted results, BMP values after 1, 5, 10, and 15 days made clear that the model predictions
improve as the experiment progresses. In addition, by combining the best algorithms, the BMP was
predicted with a relative root mean squared error of less than 10% after 6 days of experiment duration.
The authors noted that this experiment used only one type of inoculum at mesophilic temperatures,
and extensive testing remains at a larger scale (i.e., >138 samples).
Da Silva et al. [74] focused on the first order model to describe the methane yield and kinetic
constant rate for easy adaptability. In the study, a threshold time (minimum testing time) was
determined using an estimation of the rate constant (using MATLAB ‘fitnlm’ function). Where early
parameter estimation is correlated to the k value, slowly biodegradable substrates (k < 0.1 day−1 )
should have a minimum testing time greater than 15 days, and rapidly biodegradable substrates
(k ≥ 0.2 day−1 ) have testing times lower than 7 days. In the experiment, three regression results
were compared: traditional regression (based on all experimental points from day 0 to day 30
above), threshold regression (all experimental points up to minimum testing time) and balanced
threshold regression (using three data points of the initial, threshold and average time between them).
The balanced threshold regression improved the quality of parameter estimation, in comparison to
threshold regression due to the reduced effect of the initial experimental data. Using the mesophilic
BMP test described by Angelidaki et al. [18], common anaerobic digestion substrates such as sewage
sludge, primary sludge, pig manure, paunch, blood, and sewage sludge and glycerol mixture, were
tested. Although comparing kinetic constant rates to those of other studies is highly variable, the
values obtained were within the literature ranges. In comparison to Strömberg et al. [61], Da Silva
et al. [74] commented that the minimum testing times for Strömberg et al. [61] were lower. Where
Strömberg et al. [61] was able to use a minimum testing time of 4 days for sewage sludge and the
authors using 8 and 10 days respectively. The authors stated that threshold time could be reduce
if the R2 criterion was increased from 0.8 to 0.9, however this would increase the occurrence of
inaccurate predictions.
Continued research to optimize early prediction methods are recommended. This has significant
potential to increase the practicality of BMP tests for waste and water utilities, consulting companies
and AD plant operators. In addition, the development may become accurate, with the increased use of
automatic methane potential tests as they standardized results.

4.2. Automated BMP

The Automated Methane Potential Test System (AMPTS) II, developed by Bioprocess
Control, that has been gaining popularity in anaerobic biodegradability studies for its
ability to provide automatic and real-time measurements, recording and reporting of biogas
production [10,13,14,22,24,30,31,42,61,76–79]. This tool allows up to 15 test vials (500 mL) in a 35 ◦ C
for kinetic information, specific methogenic activity assays and residual gas potential analyses. Using
volumetric gas measurement technique, produced biogas is led through flexible tubing to a scrubbing
reactor [24]. The acid gases are trapped by an alkali solution and the remaining biogas is passed into the
measuring cell containing a gas counter based on the liquid displacement. As the gas bubbles generate
impulsions, the volume is recorded and translated into NmL CH4 /g VS by AMPTS v5 software [77].
In comparison to conventional gas measuring systems such as manometer, water column or gas
bag, the automatic system is time and labour saving. Wang et al. [23] compared the workload of each
BMP test by different experiment setup. By separating a BMP test into three work stages (1) time for
inoculum and substrate addition, (2) time for experimental follow up gas volume and composition
analysis during incubation, (3) data management and interpretation. The total workload (min/sample)
was 540, 220, 220, and 40 for the manometer, water column, gas bag and AMPTS II. In comparison to
manual manometric method is simpler to operate. It is predicted that in the future standardization
Water 2019, 11, 921 24 of 29

of the experimental setup, it is inevitable that the BMP method will be automated system due to
minimized human error and workload demand, analytical precision, and a standardization of data
interpretation [10,23].

4.3. Standardized Inoculum

The development of a method to produce standardized inoculum for a range of substrate in
anaerobic digestion batch tests are estimated to increase reproductivity [80]. As of 2017, the Hamburg
University of Technology (TUHH) are researching long term preservation methods for anaerobic
inocula. Testing results showed that inocula resuspended after preservation high recovery of expected
methane production. But, the authors reported a 7–10-day lag phase of methane production possibly
due to the damage of microorganism by the preservation method. Further investigations on the
optimize preservation process are required [80].

4.4. Online Methane Yield Data Base and Meta-Analysis

Online infrastructure is the next step for published BMP results data harmonization, integration
and analysis of overlapping data. In 2015, Murovec et al. [81] developed an online community
supported methane yield database. This hierarchically organized, curated and community supported
collection of reported methane yields represented the largest publicly available collection with 1164
methane yield entries (15,749 data points) by 71 parameters and 42 substrate categories. During analysis
of submitted methane data, the authors reported significant issues due of no variation of due to the
variety of data reporting in published literature, highlighting the importance of standardized methods
and reporting for results comparability. Out of all the data information entries, only 5.6% contained all
required data and 80% of methane yield entries had uninformative metadata. 17.2% of entries had to
be removed because entry data were ambiguous data. In order to improve the methane yield database
to be valuable, the authors had three recommendations: (1) there needs to be adjustments made by
both scientists and the industrial community in the reporting, (2) the methane yield data sever needs
to expand the available data categories and parameters, and (3) there needs to be and advancement of
data analysis tools for developing the ability to exchange data in both directions [81].

5. Conclusions
The objective of this paper was to outline an accessible and simplified serum bottle method.
Unlike previous methods proposed, this is a very simple laboratory technique, and allows a large
number of replicates at different conditions that can be carried out simultaneously to provide
comprehensive reproducible results. As of 2018, there continues to be a lack of standardized/universal
BMP testing procedure resulting in a lack of comparable BMP values due to the differences in equipment,
experimental conditions and procedures. However, the BMP methods continue to evolve and further
the elimination of systematic errors. In this study, BMP protocols guidelines and recommendations
were reviewed and summarized, which rendered the following conclusions:

1. The substrate to inoculum ratio has been found to be an important design parameter for achieving
accurate BMP serum bottle results. In addition, the accuracy of BMP tests could also be significantly
affected by selection of blank and control bottles, head spacing flushing, mixing, pH control, and
methane production monitoring and correction methods.
2. Kinetic models could be used to predict the methane production based on BMP tests with a
reduced testing period but the selection of the model and kinetics could varied widely with
different testing conditions and need to be carefully verified.
3. Future aspects of BMP test include further research into time-saving techniques, the use of online
database for accessibility, standardized inoculum, and increased use of automated BMP systems
for time saving, standardized results and reductions in human error.
Water 2019, 11, 921 25 of 29

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, J.F. and S.C.; Methodology, J.F. and S.C.; Validation, J.F. and S.C.; Formal
Analysis, J.F. and S.C.; Investigation, J.F.; Resources, J.F. and S.C.; Data Curation, J.F. and H.H.D.; Writing-Original
Draft Preparation, J.F. and S.C.; Writing-Review & Editing, J.F. and S.C.; Supervision, S.C.; Project Administration,
S.C.; Funding Acquisition, S.C.
Funding: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery (RGPIN-2017-04533);
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC): Collaborative Research and Development
(CRD) Grants (CRDPG484723-15).
Acknowledgments: The authors wish to thank Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
(NSERC) for providing research funding (RGPIN-2017-04533 and CRDPG484723-15). Special thanks to Guelph
Wastewater Treatment Plant for providing sludge samples.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Abbreviations
ALK Alkalinity
AD Anaerobic Digestion
BMP Biochemical Methane Potential
CO2 Carbon Dioxide
COD Chemical Oxygen Demand
CLRS Continuous Measurements with Liquid Replacement
GC Gas chromatography
LRS Liquid Replacement System
CH4 Methane
SRT Solid Retention Time
SCOD Soluble Chemical Oxygen Demand
SIR Substrate to Inoculum Ratio
TS Total Solids
TSS Total Suspended Solids
VFA Volatile Fatty Acid Concentration
VS Volatile Solids
VSS Suspended Volatile Solids
WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant

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