EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF A UASB REACTOR USING RAW VINASSE AS A SUBSTRATE FOR BIOENERGY PRODUCTION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5380/biofix.v11i1.104132Abstract
This study evaluated the performance of a UASB reactor (1000 m3), at an industrial demonstration scale, through the monitoring of three years of operation of a vinasse treatment unit for electricity production (1 MWh). The results indicated high average removal efficiencies for organic matter (COD) of 92.6% and suspended solids (SS) of 99.6%, in addition to removal rates of 80.1% for total sulfate (SO4-2), 64.6% for total phosphorus (PO43-), and 23.6% for total nitrogen (TKN). Although the physicochemical characteristics of the vinasse were aligned with literature standards, the sulfate and sulfide levels exceeded recommended values, resulting in biogas with a high H2S concentration (3,000-5,000 ppm). Despite the biogas presenting 71% methane (CH4) , the severe presence of sulfur compounds and operation at a reduced Organic Loading Rate (OLR) of ~6 kgCOD/m³.day—compared to the design potential of up to 20 kgCOD/m³.day—limited the biogas flow to 60 m³/h. Consequently, electricity generation reached only 0.6 MWh, operating 40% below the motogenerator's nominal power. It is concluded that while the reactor exhibits excellent biological performance and operational stability (TA/VFA ratio of 0.28), full viability depends on mitigating measures such as the implementation of robust desulfurization systems and the optimization of organic loading. The system establishes itself as a promising alternative for the sugarcane industry, enabling clean energy production and the utilization of the effluent and granular sludge as biofertilizers.
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