Substrate biodegradability determination

Substrate Biodegradability Determination
When managing waste – especially municipal waste – we must make every possible effort to minimize the amount of waste generated and sent to landfills. Landfill waste should be biologically stable to prevent harmful environmental impacts caused by decomposition and landfill gas generation.

Building an effective and holistic waste management system requires more than simple morphological characterization of waste streams. We also need to evaluate physical and chemical properties and assess biodegradability, which plays a critical role in identifying how biodegradable waste can be further treated and utilized – particularly as a feedstock for energy production.

Biodegradable Municipal Waste (BMW)

By determining the biodegradability of municipal and other waste streams, we provide valuable data that supports decision-making throughout the waste management system, especially during the development of waste management centers. Although waste composition varies depending on many factors, municipal waste generated in large European cities typically contains a significant proportion of biodegradable material.

According to available data, a large share of biodegradable municipal waste generated in Croatia is still disposed of in landfills. Increasing public awareness about sustainable waste management also means demonstrating that many waste materials are environmentally harmful and are better utilized as reusable resources for energy production.

We use a range of established methods to evaluate waste biodegradability, including:

  • Biogas potential testing (e.g., GS21, GS90)
  • Measuring inorganic and organic carbon content (TC, IC, TOC)
  • Loss on ignition and biomass content analysis
  • Aerobic biological stability testing of waste materials (e.g., RDRI, AT4)
Back to Laboratory
1. REAL SAMPLE COLLECTION

We collect representative field samples directly at client facilities and analyze them in our accredited laboratory in accordance with recognized standards. Our laboratory testing includes physical, chemical, and biological parameters required to define design input values, including load variability and seasonal or operational fluctuations. These data form the foundation for reliable scaling solutions and technology development.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

Based on the assessment of existing conditions and laboratory results, we develop technical solutions tailored to each client’s requirements. When designing solutions, we consider plant capacity, influent characteristics, discharge requirements (public sewer systems or natural receiving waters), and circular economy principles. To support detailed process development, our laboratory is equipped with reactors, measuring instruments, and pilot-scale systems that allow us to simulate real operating conditions. Through pilot testing, we evaluate process efficiency, optimize operating parameters, and validate treatment concepts before full-scale implementation. This approach significantly reduces investment and operational risk while ensuring long-term sustainability of the selected solution. We also place strong emphasis on optimizing energy, chemical, and resource consumption while minimizing the plant’s environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle.

3. ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING

Our multidisciplinary engineering team prepares complete project documentation, from conceptual designs and feasibility studies to detailed engineering documentation and permit applications. All documentation is developed in accordance with current legislation, technical regulations, and applicable standards while maintaining close coordination with clients and regulatory authorities.

4. PLANT ENGINEERING AND INSTALLATION – Complete turnkey plant implementation proposal, including detailed design documentation and commissioning services

We deliver turnkey treatment plants tailored to each client’s needs. Our services include detailed engineering design, equipment procurement and delivery, site organization, installation of process and electrical equipment, and integration of automation and control systems. The final stage includes functional testing and preparation for plant commissioning.

5. CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION

We provide professional technical supervision during construction to ensure full compliance with project documentation, technical standards, and contractual requirements. We monitor construction quality, installed equipment, and adherence to project timelines.

6. PLANT COMMISSIONING AND STAFF TRAINING

After construction and functional testing are complete, we perform staged commissioning with continuous monitoring of process parameters and adjustment of operating conditions. We also prepare operational manuals and provide professional staff training to ensure safe, efficient, and long-term stable plant operation.

7. POST-CONSTRUCTION TESTING

After project completion, we perform functional and other tests to verify that the treatment plant achieves the required operational parameters and effluent quality.

8. PLANT SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

We provide preventive and corrective maintenance, scheduled service inspections, and 24/7/365 technical support. Our systematic maintenance approach extends equipment lifespan, minimizes downtime risk, and ensures high operational efficiency.

9. PLANT MONITORING AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL

We implement SCADA and PLC automation and control systems that enable continuous plant monitoring, analysis of key process parameters, and rapid response to operational deviations or fluctuations in wastewater flow and loading. We place particular emphasis on reducing energy, chemical, and labor consumption.

10. PLANT OPTIMIZATION AND RECONSTRUCTION

We perform technical assessments of existing systems to identify capacity limitations, energy losses, and operational inefficiencies. Based on our findings, we recommend retrofits, upgrades, and modernization of technological process lines to improve efficiency, ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements, and extend plant service life.

Contact us