Enhanced wastewater treatment utilizing directed energy to promote degradation of sludge is disclosed. The directed energy is delivered in a stream circulating to and from an anaerobic digester. The directed energy incorporates mechanical shear energy, ultrasonic energy, and/or hydraulic shear energy. Characterization of odor potential is further disclosed involving the analyzing volatilized sulfur-containing species from dewatered sludge. The odor potential can be used to control operation of the wastewater treatment by controlling the directed energy and/or polymer dose.