Advancements in biogas: Effect of pulsed feeding with corn screen residues on pig manure properties and microbial variability

Abstract

This research focuses on the impact of pulsed feeding of corn residues on biogas production from pig manure. It also analyzes the properties and microbial diversity in the resulting product. The study highlights the increasing global demand for pork and the resulting environmental challenges, such as effluent management, and suggests that biogas production can be a sustainable solution. The research was conducted at a model farm in Argentina and involved evaluating biogas production and microbial variability at different stages of the pulsed feeding process. The results showed a significant decrease in the chemical and biochemical oxygen demands after the degassing process, indicating a reduction in organic matter. The biogas composition improved with an increase in methane and a reduction in volatile fatty acids. There was also an increase in biogas and methane production and a decrease in methane production lag time, indicating an improvement in anaerobic digestion efficiency. Microbiological analysis revealed a reduction in microbial diversity during pulsed feeding, indicating the adaptation of the microbial community to new conditions. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of pulsed feeding of corn residues to enhance biogas production from pig manure, with significant implications for effluent management in pork production and sustainable biogas production.