) and HRTs (12, 24 and 36 h), HACs were not detected.

Taguchi statistical design, an orthogonal array (OA) method, was used to study the impact of the COD/SO4 2− ratio, hydraulic retention time (HRT) and linoleic acid (LA) concentration on sulfate (SO4 2− ) reduction in an anaerobic sequencing batch reactor using glucose as the electron donor. Based on the OA, optimum condition for maximum SO4 LA addition (level 3). In general, the Taguchi OA provided a useful approach for predicting the percent SO4 2− reduction in inhibited mixed anaerobic cultures within the factor levels investigated.