Wastewater treatment plants, farms and food processing facilities have the potential to convert waste materials into heat and energy through onsite biogas production. Many already use anaerobic digestion to transform manure, wastewater and plant-based waste into methane for internal heating and power. However, this local form of renewable energy often faces efficiency challenges that can be addressed through bioaugmentation and biostimulation.
Addressing biogas production challenges
An efficient anaerobic digester typically produces about 60% methane, 40% carbon dioxide and less than 1% hydrogen sulphide and other impurities. However, when hydrolysis or other methanation stages are disrupted, methane output may decline while hydrogen sulphide and other unwanted by-products increase. Plant-based feedstocks are a particular concern, as they can introduce compounds that inhibit key microorganisms responsible for digestion, ultimately reducing biogas and energy yields.
Improving output with microbes and nutrients
Introducing beneficial microbes (bioaugmentation) and specific nutrients (biostimulation) can help address these limitations. One supplement that supports both is BCP12, which contains selected microorganisms and nutrients to promote hydrolysis, acidogenesis and acetogenesis. This helps convert carbohydrates, fats and proteins into compounds that methane-forming microbes can use.
According to Bionetix International, BCP12 has shown resilience in the presence of common inhibitors found in lignocellulosic biomass, making it particularly suitable for facilities handling food, crop, or pulp and paper waste. In a trial at a wastewater facility, the use of BCP12 was associated with increased biogas production, which helped offset natural gas use for heating. As a result, daily use of the product during colder months was recommended.
Another option is BIOGAS BOOSTER 3, a blend of three micronutrients selected to enhance microbial activity. These nutrients are stable and bioavailable, making them easy for microbes to absorb. Laboratory tests by York University, Ontario, in 2020 showed a measurable increase in biogas production within one week of applying BIOGAS BOOSTER 3.
Preparing for winter energy needs
Facilities that process large volumes of wastewater, manure or food waste are well-positioned to benefit from biogas generation. To maximise this renewable energy source, Bionetix recommends facilities consider supplementing their anaerobic digesters with microbial and nutrient-based solutions ahead of winter, when demand for heating rises.
“Bioaugmentation and biostimulation offer practical ways to enhance methane output, reduce reliance on external fuel and improve sustainability,” a representative from Bionetix International stated.
