Microbial characteristics associated with six different organic wastes undergoing anaerobic decomposition in batch vial conditions.

In this study, the biodegradation characteristics of six plant-based wastes were compared in anaerobic batch vial systems. The highest gas accumulation and methane (CH4) concentrations (approximately 70%) were observed in samples containing copy paper, newspaper and box paper materials, whereas the lowest were observed in samples containing wood and leaves. In samples containing steamed rice and fruit, the methanogenic activity was inhibited, which resulted in acid accumulation. The high biodegradation activity of newspaper samples was also associated with high adenosine triphosphate levels and dehydrogenase activity. No significant differences were, however, observed in the dehydrogenase activity of the samples. High bioluminescence was observed in samples with high biodegradation activities, indicative of low toxicity.