Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
7074412 | Bioresource Technology | 2015 | 6 Pages |
Abstract
This work examines the digestion of advanced growth stage grass silage. Two variables were investigated: particle size (greater than 3Â cm and less than 1Â cm) and rumen fluid addition. Batch studies indicated particle size and rumen fluid addition had little effect on specific methane yields (SMYs). In continuous digestion of 3Â cm silage the SMY was 342 and 343Â LÂ CH4Â kgâ1Â VS, respectively, with and without rumen fluid addition. However, digester operation was significantly affected through silage floating on the liquor surface and its entanglement in the mixing system. Digestion of 1Â cm silage with no rumen fluid addition struggled; volatile fatty acid concentrations rose and SMYs dropped. The best case was 1Â cm silage with rumen fluid addition, offering higher SMYs of 371Â LÂ CH4Â kgâ1Â VS and stable operation throughout. Thus, physical and biological treatments benefited continuous digestion of high fibre grass silage.
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Physical Sciences and Engineering
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Authors
D.M. Wall, B. Straccialini, E. Allen, P. Nolan, C. Herrmann, P. O'Kiely, J.D. Murphy,