Abstract
Analysis of feedstocks for anaerobic digestion is essential to understand their characteristics. Before feedstocks can be used at an industrial level, their analysis should give information regarding their chemical and physical properties. This allows the operator to assess whether the feedstocks will be ideal for the specific anaerobic digestion process, to establish loading criteria and to avoid failures within the digester. To achieve this, a variety of standardised laboratory experiments have been established that allow consistency of analysis of feedstocks. Additionally, pre-treatment may be required for feedstocks to be utilised to their maximum potential. This is also dependant on the feedstock type and the facilities available for the biogas plant. This chapter gives an overview of the analysis parameters involved with feedstock characterisation, as well as giving the main types of pre-treatment methods currently used in the field.