Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
680443 | Bioresource Technology | 2014 | 9 Pages |
Abstract
Ulva lactuca, a green seaweed, accumulates on beaches and shallow estuaries subject to eutrophication. As a residue, and a macro-algae, it is a source of sustainable third generation biofuel. Production of biomethane from mono-digestion of U. lactuca, however is problematic due to high levels of sulphur and low ratios of carbon to nitrogen. Fresh and dried U. lactuca were continuously co-digested with dairy slurry at ratios of 25%, 50% and 75% (by volatile solid content) in 6 number 5 L reactors for 9 months. The reactors digesting a mix with 75% U. lactuca struggled to reach stable conditions. Volatile fatty acid levels of 14,000 mg lâ1 were experienced. The levels of ammonia increased with percentage U. lactuca in the mix. Optimum conditions were observed with a mix of 25% fresh U. lactuca and 75% slurry. A yield of 170 L CH4 kgâ1 VS was achieved at an organic loading rate of 2.5 kg VS mâ3 dâ1.
Keywords
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Process Chemistry and Technology
Authors
Eoin Allen, David M. Wall, Christiane Herrmann, Jerry D. Murphy,