Influence of temperature on Biogas Production from Pistia stratiotes

Abstract

Pistia stratiotes, an aquatic weed, was investigated as a substrate for biogas production. Experiments were carried out as batch runs in laboratory-scale digesters with the addition of inoculum (digested cattle manure). Gas yields were in the range of 533–707 litres kg −1 VS (STP), respectively, 21–28 litres kg −1 fresh weight of P. stratiotes, with 30 days digestion time at temperatures of 29·5, 33·0 and 37·5°C. The average methane content was 58–68%. Due to its high biodegradability (approximately 83–99% of VS) Pistia stratiotes is very suitable as a substrate for biogas production.