ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a testing protocol for determining acetoclastic methanogenic activity (AMA) using a serum bottle technique. The procedure that is presented is simple and can be used for routine monitoring of anaerobic systems. Biomass obtained from various heights of three static-bed submerged media anaerobic reactors (SMARs) was used to evaluate the test procedure. The chapter discusses the interpretation of the AMA index for application in process design and operation. The AMA test requires the use of certain reactor environmental conditions to ensure proper growth. Anaerobic digestion of wastes generally follows three sequential stages: hydrolysis, acidogenesis/acetogenesis, and methanogenesis. The concept of biomass "activity" has been recognized for many years in aerobic treatment processes. Standard Methods provides a procedure for determining activated sludge activity based on specific oxygen consumption rate. Several methods have been used for monitoring the course of biogas production. The syringe method involves the free displacement of syringe piston by the biogas produced in equilibrium with atmospheric pressure.
