Methane(CH4 )
Wastewater as well as its sludge components can produce CH4 if it degrades anaerobically. The extent of CH4
production depends primarily on the quantity of degradable organic material in the wastewater, the temperature,
and the type of treatment system. With increases in temperature, the rate of CH4 production increases. This is
especially important in uncontrolled systems and in warm climates. Below 15°C, significant CH4 production is
unlikely because methanogens are not active and the lagoon will serve principally as a sedimentation tank.
However, when the temperature rises above 15°C, CH4 production is likely to resume.