Method for increased productivity of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) in fed-batch processes for biomass derived from the treatment of wastewater

This disclosure relates to methods for producing a PHA-rich-biomass from open mixed cultures. Mixed liquor containing biomass is directed into a fed-batch reactor. The reactor includes at least one biomass stimulating zone and at least one biomass maintenance zone. A feed containing RBCOD, bioavailable N, and bioavailable P is directed into the fed-batch reactor. The respiration rate of at least a portion of the biomass is intermittently and repeatedly stimulated in the stimulating zone by directing the feed into the fed-batch reactor and exposing the biomass to a relatively high concentration of RBCOD. The biomass is then transferred to the maintenance zone, where the biomass is exposed to a relatively low concentration of RBCOD. Thereafter, the biomass is circulated back and forth between the stimulating zone and the maintenance zone. Throughout the methods, the concentration of N and/or P relative to the RBCOD in the feed is controlled by controlling the ratio of N to RBCOD and/or the ration of P to RBCOD in the feed.