Particle Diameter and Nutrient Related Studies of Anaerobic Biodegradation of Lignocellulose from Corn Stalks in Biogas Production for Sustainable Energy Development

Abstract

Unextracted lignocellulose from corn stalks was investigated for its anaerobic biodegradability at 38 o C using mixed micro organisms harnessed directly from the air. The effects of particle diameter and certain nutrients on biodegradability were investigated. The highest biogas yield was observed for ≤ 1.0 mm particle diameter size, followed by ≤ 2.0 mm particle diameter and then ≤ 3.0 mm particle diameter. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) and urea were found to increase biogas yield when in low concentrations. The combination of PDA and urea in low concentrations is a better nutrient than either PDA or urea alone.