Use of pH and pE measurements during methane biosynthesis

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Abstract
Methane biosynthesis within the anaerobic ecosystem results from the diphasic conversion of complex organic substrates through a series of biologically mediated oxidation‐reduction reactions which arc pH dependent. Routine parametric analysis of the products emanating from the corresponding acid and methane fermentation phases of the anaerobic digestion process provide a basis for determination of process condition and efficiency. Of these analyses, pH and electrode potential of pE are intensive parameters of considerable significance but for which interpretation is often difficult and misleading. Attention has been focussed on the analogy and distinction between pH and pE determinations and their application to the anaerobic ecosystem. Theoretical and practical limitations are discussed and experimental evidence presented which supports the possible use of pH and pE determinations for process evaluation and control.

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