Investigating the Influence of Initial pH and Temperature on the Temporal Evolution of pH during Anaerobic Acidification in a Simplified Organic System

This investigation explores how initial pH (6, 7, and 8) and incubation temperature (ambient vs. 37°C) influence the temporal evolution of pH during the anaerobic acidification of a sucrose-based organic system.

Using a laboratory-scale factorial design, pH was monitored every 30 minutes for 90 minutes. The study employs rigorous statistical methods, including mean calculations, standard deviation, and complex uncertainty propagation for the acidification rate.

Findings reveal that higher initial pH levels enhance system stability, while mesophilic temperatures significantly accelerate acidification. This exemplar is highly valuable for its thorough error analysis, detailed calculation of acidification kinetics, and strong application of Henderson-Hasselbalch and buffering capacity theories.