• P-ISSN 0974-6846 E-ISSN 0974-5645

Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Article

Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Year: 2019, Volume: 12, Issue: 30, Pages: 1-17

Original Article

Experimental Investigation on the Sequential Pretreatment of Agricultural Biomass Wastes for Increased Biogas Production

Abstract

Objectives: In the present work, different pretreatment methods (milling, ultrasonication, liquid hot water, and alkali hydrolysis) were evaluated on rice straw and coconut shell that can be used as a substrate for biogas production for vehicle fuel, provide heat and generate electricity. Methods: This was achieved by the sequential combination of ultrasonication, hot water, and alkali hydrolysis treatment at a various concentration (4% and 5% w/v) was evaluated. Additionally, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) was used as one of the methods in identifying structural differences and identification of compounds in the treated biomass. Findings: The results showed that the combination of ultrasonication-alkali hydrolysis, hot liquid water using 3% of NaOH improved methane yield of 150% for rice straw and 290% for coconut shell compared with the original treatment. Additionally, FT-IR identified modifications in the biomass structure after different types of pretreatments and conditions. Application: The results of this research are the initial steps for the development of new processes using the Ultrasonication-NaOH LHW pretreatment, for the production of biogas from agricultural biomass waste. 

Keywords: Biogas, Co-Digestion, Liquid Hot Water, Methane, Pretreatment, Ultrasonication

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