Anaerobic Digestion of Dairy Manure and Potato Culls
University of Idaho Seed Grant
Overview
abstract
Rising energy prices, broader regulatory requirements, and increasing concern over greenhouse gas emissions and interest in producing renewable energy have led to a broader interest in the anaerobic digestion (AD) of dairy manure and other organic wastes. AD is a biodegradation process using a consortium of bacteria to convert a large portion of organic solids in the manure and other organic wastes into biogas (mainly methane). Increasingly, dairy and potato producers and other interested groups are requesting science-based data to make better decisions on how AD can benefit them. The objectives of this project are to develop an AD test system, to investigate anaerobic digestion of dairy manure at various conditions, and to study co-digestion of dairy manure with potato culls via the AD test system. The anticipated outcomes of this project include development of an AD test system, science-based information for optimum AD operational parameters and effects of anaerobic co-digestion of dairy manure with potato culls. Outcomes of this project will help PI and Idaho commodity groups such as dairy and potato producers to address waste management challenges. In addition, the developed AD test system and preliminary results will benefit PI's future external funding applications.
