What is the operational temperature for thermophilic anaerobic digesters?

Thermophilic anaerobic digesters operate at elevated temperatures that are typically around 55°C to 75°C, with 60°C being a common operational temperature. This temperature range is conducive to the activity of thermophilic bacteria, which are essential for the digestion process that breaks down organic material in sewage.

Thermophilic digestion provides several benefits, including enhanced biogas production and pathogen reduction. By maintaining the digester temperature at approximately 60°C, it encourages the optimal growth and activity of these bacteria, thus improving the overall efficiency of the digestion process.

The other options fall outside the optimal thermophilic range; temperatures above 70°C can be too extreme and might lead to decreased microbial activity or even thermal destruction of the microbial population, while temperatures below 50°C would not support thermophilic conditions, instead entering mesophilic territory, which supports different bacterial communities and digestion characteristics.