Title : Enhancing biomethanation from anaerobic digestion using hydrochar
Abstract:
Anaerobic digestion is a well-established technology that recovers energy and nutrients from organic wastes. However, the effectiveness (and hence the economic viability) of biogas production depends strongly on the efficiency of biomethanation. It is well known that the thermal carbonisation of organic materials can increase their digestibility to anaerobic organisms, and it has been suggested that hydrochar can enhance biomethane production during anaerobic digestion by acting as an electron shuttle to facilitate direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) between the microorganisms involved.
In this study, we aim to better understand the fundamental role hydrochar could play in improving anaerobic digestion by exploring the relationship between the properties of hydrochar, microbial composition and biochemical processes that contribute to biomethane production. We hypothesise that the carbonaceous matrix of hydrochar can facilitate direct electron transfer through electrical conductance and provide capacitance through electron storage and release. Additionally, the highly porous surface of hydrochar possesses redox-active oxygen-containing functional groups that could facilitate electron donation and acceptance. Moreover, hydrochar could also provide a surface for microbial growth, thereby enhancing closer associations among them.
We aim to investigate the surface and electrochemical properties of hydrochars engineered with reinforcement materials, which can facilitate direct electron transfer between the microorganisms involved. It is anticipated that the outcomes from this study will aid in optimising biomethane production during anaerobic digestion, thus enabling a more significant recovery of energy from organic waste materials and contributing to a circular economy. This project will also contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations member states.
