Contaminants, biochemical methane potential, and biodegradability of different bio-waste categories: guidance for anaerobic digestion.

This study evaluated the anaerobic digestion suitability of bio-waste from different sources by comparing their biochemical methane potential (BMP), biodegradability (BI), and content of contaminants (heavy metals and physical impurities) - an often-overlooked factor but one of particular concern in bio-waste. Predominant heavy metals included Cu and Zn, while recurring physical impurities comprised plastics and organic non-biodegradable matter. Food waste from food processing plants were most suitable, exhibiting low contamination and high biogas conversion (BMP > 549 NmLCH/gVS and BI > 86 %).