Biogas Production from Arthrospira platensis Biomass

Abstract

Biogas production by fermentation is a relatively low-cost and simple method for the transformation of a substrate into an energy carrier with a wide range of possible applications. The aim of this study was to determine the potential of Arthrospira platensis biomass as a source of bioenergy produced during anaerobic digestion (AD). The studies were carried out on a fractional-technical scale. Biogas yield and composition were analyzed as a function of the amount of biomass subjected to anaerobic digestion, the substrate dosing frequency in the digester and the use of biomass pre-hydrolysis in the mixing compartment. The energy efficiency of the process was also compared for each sample. In addition, a biomass conversion power index was developed and determined. It was found that A. platensis biomass had significant energy potential, and the amount of biogas obtained and its calorific value changed depending on the applied treatments. The maximum cumulative biogas production was 505 L kg−1 volatile solids (VS), while the maximum average methane (CH4) content was 67.32%. A two-fold increase in the organic loading rate from 1 g VS·L−1 volatile solids (VS) to 2 g VS·L−1 had a positive effect on methane concentration. The highest energy efficiency of the AD process was obtained for 2 g VS·L−1, with a single feedstock input into the digester, in a single-stage process (2/s/-), while the highest conversion power ratio was for a feedstock of 1 g VS·L−1, under the same process conditions (1/s/-). Moreover, the energy efficiency of the microalgae fermentation process obtained in the study is higher compared to conventional substrates used in biogas plants. This energy analysis can support the selection of cogeneration power engines in a biogas plant and help to determine the potential output of the biogas plant, especially with varying energy and heat demand.