PRODUCTION OF BIOGAS IN LANDFILL CELLS USING BEEF CATTLE MANURE COLLECTED IN OPEN LOTS

Two laboratory experiments were completed, and a field demonstration project is currently underway, to evaluate biogas production from beef cattle manure collected from openlot pens at a commercial feedyard. Experiment I was conducted at 21°C and Experiment 2 was conducted at 35°C. Collapsible 4 L low density polyethylene (LDPE) containers were filled with 120 g of manure (50 g VS) and water, the containers were flattened, and the air was displaced. For Experiment 1, water was added to obtain wet weight basis moisture contents (MCs) of 12.9% (control), 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, and 75%. For Experiment 2, moisture contents of 35, 50, 57.5, 65, 72.5, and 80% were used. There were five replications at each moisture content. Biogas production was monitored every 7 days using a water displacement method. In Experiment 1, The author(s) is solely responsible for the content of this technical presentation. The technical presentation does not necessarily reflect the official position of ASAE, and its printing and distribution does not constitute an endorsement of views which may be expressed.