Mathematical Modelling of the Anaerobic Digestion Process: Regulatory Mechanisms for the Formation of Short-Chain Volatile Acids from Glucose

Abstract

A model of the anaerobic digestion process is presented which attempts to explain the complex patterns of volatile acid production in the anaerobic digestion process. The hydrogen-utilising methane bacteria are identified as the controlling organisms for the redox potential of the process. Mathematical expressions for the regulation of metabolism by hydrogen are derived from the known redox potential of the NAD/NADH couple.