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Towards a standardization of biomethane potential tests: a commentary
Christof Holliger1, Sergi Astals2, Hélène Fruteau de Laclos3
1Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, ENAC-IIE Laboratory for Environmental Biotechnology, Station 6, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
Summary
Biomethane potential (BMP) test reproducibility is poor. New guidelines were developed in 2016 and updated in 2018 based on inter-laboratory studies to improve BMP test validation and results.
Area of Science:
- Anaerobic Digestion
- Biotechnology
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Inter-laboratory reproducibility of biomethane potential (BMP) tests is a significant issue.
- Variations in BMP values for identical samples can exceed 100%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the poor reproducibility of BMP tests.
- To present an update to the 2016 BMP testing guidelines based on new data.
Main Methods:
- A workshop in 2015 led to the initial 2016 BMP guidelines.
- Two international inter-laboratory studies and a 2018 workshop generated new data.
- The dataset was used to refine BMP test validation criteria.
Main Results:
- The 2016 guidelines aimed to standardize BMP testing procedures.
- New data from inter-laboratory studies provided a basis for refining validation criteria.
- An updated set of guidelines is proposed based on these findings.
Conclusions:
- Standardized BMP testing is crucial for reliable biogas yield assessments.
- Continuous refinement of guidelines through collaborative studies enhances reproducibility.
- The proposed updates aim to further improve the accuracy and consistency of BMP measurements.
