Project Title: The Optimisation of Sludge Treatment by Conditioning of Feed Solids.

Student Name: Noreen Layden

Supervisor: Dr. John Bartlett

Funding Body: HEA PRTLI 3

Abstract:

A research study is proposed, to examine the optimisation of Anaerobic Digestion (AD) for the treatment of sewage sludge, industrial wastes and animal slurries through pre-treatment of the feedstock.

This project involves direct collaboration between IT, Sligo and the University of Hertfordshire (UH). Dr. Stephen J. Hall of UH is a lecturer in chemical technology, fermentation technology and waste treatment with over 15 years research experience in sludge and waste treatment.

This project is a development of three Biosolids projects funded in PRTLI-Cycle 2 (characterisation of sewage sludges, optimisation of sludge treatment technologies and land aspects of agricultural reuse). Results from this project will be available to all researchers within the Centre for Sustainability, in particular those of Biosolids 8 (ATAD treatment of cattle slurries).

One Ph.D. student is envisaged. This student will travel to the University of Hertfordshire during the research study, under the supervision of Dr. Hall, to examine the UK perspective on these sludges and anaerobic digestion.