574-582The bioprocessing methodology of predigester has been modified to optimize the kitchen solid waste processing for enhanced biogas production. The batch and semi-batch study of bioprocess modification in the predigester by adding Candida sp. to acetogenic predigester culture with controlled aeration (micro-aerobic) has shown the enhancement in volatile fatty acid (VFA) in predigestion. The study of pilot plant which was operated with 24 - 30 days of hydraulic retention time (HRT) with average rate of feeding was 67-82 kg-wet/day. The experiment resulted with average volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration of 25.41 g/l enhanced from 18.04 g/l in predigestion and ultimately average biogas production increased to 16.23 m3/day from 6.76 m3/day. The efficiency of biogas production per unit feed processed was enhanced from 0.099 m3/kg-wet to 0.2 m3/kg-wet. The present study of waste to energy technology offers a promising decentralized alternative for organic solids/ food waste utilization for enhanced biogas production
