Mechanisms, status, and challenges of thermal hydrolysis and advanced thermal hydrolysis processes in sewage sludge treatment

Sewage sludge management has garnered interest in both academia and industry due to the challenges of overpopulation and its potential as a bioenergy source. Thermal hydrolysis is a promising technology for sludge pre-treatment prior to anaerobic digestion to enhance biogas production. However, the technology is facing two main problems; the dark colour of sludge can affect UV disinfection and the formation of methanogenesis inhibitors such as free ammonia and refractory compounds have a significant impact on methane production in anaerobic digestion processes. Advanced thermal hydrolysis, which is an oxidative thermal hydrolysis process, has been introduced to overcome these challenges. This study provides a comprehensive review of the mechanisms and reactions which occur during the hydrothermal hydrolysis and advanced thermal hydrolysis processes. Technical and implementation challenges of both technologies are discussed. Additionally, the prospects of the technologies are assessed through their technology readiness levels. An assessment of the relevant literature is also provided to illuminate the aspects in which research gaps exist and areas where additional studies could be performed.

Automated summary

Sewage sludge management is a topic of interest due to the challenges of overpopulation and its potential as a bioenergy source. Thermal hydrolysis is a promising technology for sludge pre-treatment, but faces challenges such as dark color affecting UV disinfection and the formation of inhibitors impacting methane production. Advanced thermal hydrolysis, an oxidative process, has been introduced to overcome these challenges.