Solid state biomethanation of fruit wastes.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Waste Management

Background:

• Fruit waste accumulation in Chennai necessitates sustainable disposal solutions.
• Developing eco-friendly methods for fruit waste management is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate solid-state biomethanation of fruit waste using a laboratory-scale anaerobic digester.
• To assess the impact of varying total solids (TS) concentrations on biogas production and fermentation stability.

Main Methods:

• Experimentation with fruit waste containing 3%, 4%, and 5% total solids in an anaerobic digester.
• Daily and cumulative biogas production monitoring.
• Analysis of fermentation stability, pH, and nutrient content (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium).

Main Results:

• Biogas generation increased with higher total solids, reaching 0.27 and 0.35 m3/day/m3 at 4% and 5% TS, respectively.
• Fermentation stability was maintained between pH 6.8–7.4 for 3% and 4% TS.
• Inhibition of methanogenic bacteria and reduced reactor performance were observed at 5% TS.

Conclusions:

• Solid-state biomethanation is an effective method for fruit waste disposal.
• 4% initial total solids content is ideal for optimal biogas yield and stable fermentation.
• Higher TS concentrations (5%) can inhibit microbial activity, negatively impacting the process.