Comparison of Biogas Production from Water Hyacinth and Poultry Waste

Abstract

The study examined the comparison of biogas production using water hyacinth and poultry waste. The organic wastes: poultry dung and water hyacinth were dried and digested in an anaerobic biodigester in a slurry form. Biogas productions were observed and measured for a stretch of 14 days. Temperature fluctuations and pH changes in the digester were monitored throughout the period. Heat efficiency and cooking rate of both substrates were also determined and compared with conventional gas (group). The result showed that temperature was within mesophilic temperature (28⁰C-32⁰C). Also, the pH fluctuated within 6.0-7.4 which is an optimal range for methanogens responsible for biodigestion to thrive. The results further revealed that the total gas yield was 316.6ml and 209.0ml for poultry waste and water hyacinth respectively. A domestic heating test was carried out for the 2 substrates digested using the biogas produced to raise 300ml (0.3kg) of water to boiling point (100^oC). The time expended was recorded in minutes as follows - 8.56mins and 7.53mins for water hyacinth and poultry dung. In comparison, conventional gas (control) was faster than both substrates, while poultry waste was faster than water hyacinth in relation to time taken to raise the temperature of 0.3kg of water to boiling point (100^oC).  The research affirmed that poultry dung had the utmost gas turnout compared with water hyacinth, though it is more abundant for use as feedstock in this region. The research elucidates that the aquatic macrophytes (Eicchorniacrasssipes) and poultry waste can be transformed to profitable resource (biogas) which can help increase the energy stock and create wealth.