Influence of Microwave Pretreatment on Biogas Production from Co-‎Digestion of Corn Cobs and ‎ Cow Manure

Abstract

This study aimed to produce biogas after microwave pretreatment of corn cobs and cow manure in a co-digestion system. The batch digester was manufactured from 10 PVC cans having a volume of 1050ml per each. Microwave pretreatment at the power of 294, 511 and 700 W and exposure time of 5, 10 and 15 minutes were applied to samples of corn cobs and cow manure “each sample has a mass of about 736.1 g. Its effects on biogas production were identified. The microwave added energy (SE) from microwave pretreatment was determined at range from 1198,207 to 8,558.62 kJ. kg -1 TS obtained about 10.82-46.8% increase in biogas production. The optimal microwave pretreatment obtained power of 511 W per 10 min exposure time. That adds a specific energy of 4165.195 kJ. kg -1 TS produced daily biogas of 307.95 ml/day. Microwave pretreatment with the co-digestion of corn cobs and cow manure is a suitable technology for energy production.