Qualitative and Quantitative Means of Production of Biogas from Biodegradable Waste (Cow Dung) for Sustainable Energy

Abstract

Aims: This study was carried out by analyzing the quantitative and qualitative of the biogas produced from cow dung by degrading mechanism. 32L of bioreactors was used for the study.
 Methodology: The bioreactors were constructed to imitate the fixed batch prototype. The study lasted for 30 days and it was carried out at the National Centre for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria,Nsukka. Slurry was prepared in bioreactors. The substrates in the bioreactors were water and cow dung (intestinal and abdominal waste). The pH, the total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS) and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) characteristics of the substrate before and after digestion were determined using standard method. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of biogas production was by liquid displacement and gas Analyzer methods
 Results: The results of the TS, VS and VFA were 400 mg/l, 92mg/l and 16.7 mg/l respectively in the predigested samples and 92 mg/l, 17.4mg/l and 28.3mg/l respectively in the post digested samples. The quantity of biogas produced at the first week was 8.5liters, 7.5litre and 6.1liter from the 4th day, 5th day and 8th days. The qualitative analysis showed that the prominent biogas produced was methane. 
 Conclusion: The results of the research concluded that high quantity of biogas can be produced using cow dung. Approaches and technology for more efficient biogas producing consortia are proposed.