Abstract
In an extension of an earlier study of the formation of a mixture of methane, propane and carbon dioxide in the biodegradation of solvent-extracted elephant grass lignocellulose using pure microorganism cultures unextracted (crude) elephant grass stalk was used. The effects of mixed microorganisms (instead of pure cultures), potato dextrose agar (PDA) and nutrients (PO 4 3− SO 4 2−, urea, d,l-asparagine) were studied. In addition, the effectiveness of mixed microorganisms harnessed directly from the air on substrate samples was also investigated. The results showed good correlation with those of the earlier study. The extent of biogas formation was found to depend on the concentration of elephant grass and to be first-order with respect to the latter. PDA and all the nutrients enhanced biogas formation. Urea was most effective at the lower concentrations. Systems with microorganisms harnessed directly on the substrate by prior exposure to air degraded practically as efficiently as those treated with mixed cultures.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
