In the quest for sustainable waste management solutions, anaerobic digestion (AD) has been identified as a critical method for managing waste activated sludge (WAS). Despite its potential, AD is challenged by issues related to efficiency and stability. This situation has led to the exploration of various additives, among which biochar (BC) has been recognized as a promising option for its cost-effectiveness, simplicity in operational demands, and sustainability. Its physiochemical properties appeared ideally suited to enhance AD processes. In this context, this study delves into the application of BC, including its specific forms of pyrochar (PC) and hydrochar (HC), derived from WAS. The objective is to bridge the research gaps in continuous operation and to understand the underlying mechanisms by which BC influences AD performance. Through the evaluation of the influence of biosolids-derived BC on AD, the analysis of its impact across various conditions, and the exploration of the distinct mechanisms of PC and HC, this study aims to contribute to the literature of AD efficiency and stability. This study is not merely about optimizing a process; it is about bring novel thoughts on sustainable waste management, boosting renewable energy production, and contributing to the circular economy within the wastewater treatment industry.
Bio: Shamima Eaysmine is a research scholar and PhD student at ACWEB, the University of Queensland (UQ). Before embarking on her PhD studies at UQ, she earned her degree in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. She is working as a Lecturer (Chemistry) for Department of Secondary and Higher Education, Bangladesh and is on deputation to undertake her PhD study at UQ. She has also worked as a scientific officer at the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR). Her fields of research interest are environmental engineering and polymer research.