Sugarcane scum (SCS) is a waste from the non-centrifugal cane sugar making process. Due to its physicochemical characteristics, it has a high-energy potential to produce biomethane via anaerobic digestion (AD). However, (i) the total solids concentration in the SCS exceeds the limit for wet digestion and (ii) the SCS has a low pH. The aim of this research was to evaluate the utilization capacity of the SCS for methane production through a biochemical methane potential test and extent of disintegration, using dilution pretreatment. The highest methane yield, 0.227?N?m3?CH4?kg?1?VS, was achieved at a 12.5% SCS dilution, with an organic matter removal greater than 70% and an extent of disintegration of 34.5%. This is evidence that the AD process is a feasible alternative for SCS treatment.
Año: 2019
ISSN: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122364