EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF TOTAL SOLID CONCENTRATION ON BIOGAS YIELD USING COW DUNG
Abstract
This study evaluates the influence of total solids (TS) concentration on biogas
production using cow dung as a primary substrate under mesophilic anaerobic digestion
conditions. As a renewable energy source, biogas offers a viable alternative to fossil
fuels, particularly in agricultural settings where animal waste is abundant. The
experiment was conducted using three anaerobic batch digesters, each loaded with
different TS concentrations—5.35%, 11.39%, and 21.19%—to assess their effect on
biogas yield. The results revealed a direct correlation between TS content and biogas
production, with the highest TS concentration (21.19%) producing the largest volume
of gas (250 mL) over a 14-day retention period. This demonstrates that increased
organic loading enhances microbial activity and methane generation, provided that
other conditions such as pH, temperature, and nutrient balance are maintained.
Proximate analysis of the cow dung showed high carbohydrate (45.31%) and protein
(21%) content, supporting its efficacy as a biogas feedstock. The findings highlight the
critical role of TS optimization in maximizing biogas yield and underscore the potential
of cow dung as a sustainable energy resource. Future research is recommended to
investigate higher TS thresholds and co-digestion strategies for improved process
efficiency and stability
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