Substrate Constituents
The organic constituents of substrates can be divided into carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
The substrate composition influences both the development of the microbial community during the process and the resulting metabolic products.
The relative proportions of the main metabolic products of complete anaerobic degradation (CH4, CO2) are strongly influenced by the composition of the initial substrate. Fats yield the highest specific gas volume, while proteins produce the highest methane content in the digester gas.
Gas Yield
The total volume of gas obtained from the substrate within the respective retention time (gas yield) is best expressed per 1 kg of organic dry matter, as this also takes differing water contents into account. Both nutrient composition and the degree of degradation have a major influence on gas yield.
Degree of Degradation
The degree of degradation indicates the percentage of organic dry matter that has been broken down within the retention time. Complete degradation is theoretically possible only if the substrate contains no lignin, which methane-producing bacteria can barely break down. In this case, only the mineral fraction remains in the fully digested substrate.
Retention Time
The retention time has a major influence on the degree of degradation, gas production rate and gas yield.
The organic constituents of substrates can be divided into carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
The substrate composition influences both the development of the microbial community during the process and the resulting metabolic products.
The relative proportions of the main metabolic products of complete anaerobic degradation (CH4, CO2) are strongly influenced by the composition of the initial substrate. Fats yield the highest specific gas volume, while proteins produce the highest methane content in the digester gas.
Gas Yield
The total volume of gas obtained from the substrate within the respective retention time (gas yield) is best expressed per 1 kg of organic dry matter, as this also takes differing water contents into account. Both nutrient composition and the degree of degradation have a major influence on gas yield.
Degree of Degradation
The degree of degradation indicates the percentage of organic dry matter that has been broken down within the retention time. Complete degradation is theoretically possible only if the substrate contains no lignin, which methane-producing bacteria can barely break down. In this case, only the mineral fraction remains in the fully digested substrate.
Retention Time
The retention time has a major influence on the degree of degradation, gas production rate and gas yield.
As part of its biogas analysis services, Archea offers
substrate testing for biogas production potential.
substrate testing for biogas production potential.