Investigating the optimal biogas yield through anaerobic co-digestion of poultry manure and cassava peels: Experimental and modelling methods

¹ Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, 320001, Nigeria
² Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa.
³ Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pan-Atlantic, Lekki, 105101, Nigeria
⁴ Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun, 330253, Nigeria
⁵ Department of Electrical Engineering, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, South Africa
⁶ Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria
⁷ Department of Civil Engineering, Delta State University, Abraka, 334101, Nigeria.

Abstract

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a promising solution for sustainable energy, supporting affordable, clean power and aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 7. The study addressed the need for alternative energy sources through the co-digestion of poultry droppings (PD) and cassava peelings (CP). This approach is crucial for effective waste management and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The work aimed to explore the anaerobic co-digestion of PD and CP and its effects on kinetic parameters and biogas production. Five digesters (A: 0% CP, B: 25% CP, C: 50% CP, D: 75% CP, E: 100% CP) were set up under mesophilic conditions. Results showed that digester B produced the highest cumulative biogas yield (25.2 L/gVS), with an average methane yield of 62.6%. The modified Gompertz model revealed notable differences in the kinetic parameters among the digesters, indicating that digester B had the fastest acclimation time of 6.9 days. This study has direct implications for achieving the African Union Agenda 2063, which emphasizes energy self-sufficiency through sustainable practices and supports renewable energy initiatives, especially in rural African communities. It provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to incorporate bioenergy solutions into national energy strategies.