Evaluation of preservation methods for improving biogas production and enzymatic conversion yields of annual crops
2011

Improving Biogas Production from Annual Crops

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Annukka Pakarinen, Pekka Maijala, Seija Jaakkola, Frederick L Stoddard, Maritta Kymäläinen, Liisa Viikari

Primary Institution: University of Helsinki

Hypothesis

Can different preservation methods enhance biogas production and enzymatic conversion yields of annual crops?

Conclusion

Ensiling and alkaline preservation methods significantly improve methane production and enzymatic hydrolysis yields from fresh crop materials.

Supporting Evidence

  • Ensiling with formic acid increased methane yields from maize by 16%.
  • Alkaline urea treatment significantly improved the enzymatic hydrolysability of hemp.
  • Preservation methods enhanced the availability of carbohydrates for biogas production.

Takeaway

This study shows that storing crops in a special way can help make more energy from them when we turn them into biogas.

Methodology

The study involved ensiling and alkaline preservation of maize, hemp, and faba bean, followed by analysis of methane production and enzymatic hydrolysis.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in the selection of crop types and preservation methods.

Limitations

The study focused on only three crop types and may not be generalizable to all crops.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1754-6834-4-20

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication