Anaerobic digestion is a process through which bacteria break down organic matter, such as manure, in the absence of oxygen. All anaerobic digestion systems adhere to the same basic principles whether the feedstock is food waste, animal manures or wastewater sludge. The organic matter is broken down by the bacteria and as the bacteria “work”, they convert organic matter and other intermediate organic components to generate biogas.
The biogas that is generated is made mostly of methane, the primary component of natural gas. Recovered biogas can be an energy source for electricity, heating or transportation fuel.
Every tonne of food waste recycled by anaerobic digestion as an alternative to a landfill can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, one of the many benefits of anaerobic digestion. Some types of organic matter break down more easily than others. Generally, the more “digestible” the organic matter is, the more biogas can be produced.
To help with the performance process and for anaerobic plants to operate effectively they require a variety of nutrients for the micro-organisms to grow and function properly. See OMEX range of trace element additives.
