Application of pre-treatment for enhancing biogas production from plant-based agricultural waste

Abstract

Agricultural waste is a suitable renewable source for the production of biogas, which can be converted into different forms of energy. Chemical pre-treatment can make anaerobic digestion faster and increase biogas yields. In this study, a mechanical and alkaline combination of pre-treatment is used. The aim of study is to compare the biogas yield with and without pre-treatment, as well as to develop a device which can be used as a system for chemical pre-treatment. Results show that a combination of the granulation of raw materials and alkaline treatment is an effective pre-treatment for increasing biogas yield.