Anaerobic treatment of solid agro-industrial residues

Abstract

Solid agro-industrial wastes can be recycled in a cheaper eco-friendly bioconversion way using the anaerobic treatment method. With the depletion of fossil fuels the identification of bio-renewable fuel replacements is well underway. Biomethane derived from Biogas is one possible answer to this dilemma. Biogas production technology has been used for decades in developing countries for cheap production of fuel for heating and cooking from agro-residues, specifically animal manure. More developed countries have followed suit with production from a wide range of agro-wastes. With the convening of the EU, the 6th framework program and publication lead to the investigation of crops specifically for possible energy production. Varieties such as Maize, Sugar Beet and Wheat etc have been studied intensively. This route of investigation has not only applied to the EU but also across the world. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2009.