Effect of environmental temperature on a small-scale biodegradation systemfor organic solid waste

The optimum environmental temperature for a biodegrading machine using wood particles as a matrix was investigated using a small-scale degradation rea ctor and model waste. The biodegradation rate was evaluated by weight loss of waste and CO2 evolution. The degradation reaction was restricted only by adjusting the environmental temperature while sufficient oxygen and substr ates were supplied. Results suggested that the optimum temperature for degr adation was 30 degrees -40 degreesC for exploiting biological activity effe ctively with the lowest use of energy. Bacteria from the environment propag ated in the reactor with no inoculum added. The microbial flora changed dur ing the operation time but had no effect on the biodegradation rate.