Parameters affecting protein production from brewery waste water in a multi-channel laboratory-scale activated sludge system

Summary With the aim of studying the possible utilization of brewery waste water activated sludge for animal feeding, the influence of the solids retention time (SRT) and nitrogen supplementation were investigated, especially with respect to biomass production and biomass composition. It was found that the SRT strongly influenced both parameters. At an SRT of from 4 to 6 days excellent biomass production was obtained. This biomass had the highest protein content and the daily protein production was four times higher than at a SRT of 20 days. Supplementation with urea doubled the protein production, lowered the carbohydrate and poly--hydroxybutyric acid content, but increased the nucleic acid content. The COD removal was better and phosphorus removal increased. In order to study these variables, a multi-channel laboratory system was designed. Because of its simplicity in operation and its versatility this system is described in detail.