Laboratory tests

Our Hamburg location allows us to analyse samples.

This enables us to provide you with reliable information on the performance of our high-performance ultrasonic systems

when used on aqueous suspensions (e.g. biomass, sludge) or other conceivable industrial applications.

Our laboratory tests

For this purpose, it is usually necessary to test the relevant samples in the laboratory during a preparatory phase

using variable levels of ultrasonic energy in order to determine the optimal ultrasonic settings for the planned operating conditions.
High-power ultrasonic systems typically operate at a frequency of 20 kHz or 35 kHz,

as the desired effect can be achieved most effectively in this frequency range through cavitation.

Ultrasound

Accordingly, the following ultrasound units are always available in our laboratory:

- Ultrasonic transducer, 20 kHz frequency, 1 kW power, 25–50 W/cm² intensity
- Ultrasonic transducer, 35 kHz frequency, 0.8 kW power, 60–120 W/cm² intensity

These transducers correspond to those fitted in the ULTRAWAVES standard units.
Special applications involving fundamental research require a wider range of frequencies.
For this purpose, we are equipped with a series of laboratory ultrasound units
covering the broad frequency range between 40 kHz and 3,200 kHz (manufactured by ELAC Nautik).

Viscosity

Ultrasonic treatment of suspensions of any kind leads to a reduction in the viscosity of the suspension.
This is a very welcome effect, as it significantly improves mixing in digesters or fermenters at biogas plants.
To demonstrate this positive effect, we use a rotational viscometer (manufactured by Malvern Instruments).

Particle size distribution

Ultrasonic treatment leads to a change in the particle size distribution of particles or flocs in suspensions.
On request, we can analyse the particle size distribution using a CIS 100 particle analyser (manufactured by Galai).

Methane potential

The AMPTS methane potential test system enables the automated measurement
and analysis of biogas flow rates generated during the anaerobic digestion of various substrates.
The parameters measured are gas production (biogas or methane) and the substrate degradation rate.
This provides us with information on the biogas potential of the substrates,

enabling us to comparatively determine the increase in biogas yield resulting from ultrasonic treatment (AMPTS by Bioprocess Control).

Dry residue, chemical oxygen demand, nitrogen concentration

We routinely determine key water chemistry parameters for the samples in accordance with DIN 38414:
dry residue and loss on ignition. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen concentration are determined photometrically.