A novel strategy to reduce trace element supplementation in the semi-solid anaerobic digestion with gradient ammonia concentration: the role of biochar

Solid anaerobic digestion of chicken manure is prone to the accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Addition of trace elements (TEs) is an effective way to stabilize the digestion system. However, excessive supplementation of TEs may eventually cause environmental pollution. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an environmentally friendly method to reduce the addition for TEs. In this study, we explored the possibility of reducing the sup-plement for TEs with the assistance of biochar. The results showed that addition of biochar resulted in a 50 % decrease in the need for TE supplementation when the organic loading rate (OLR) was 5 g TS-1 d-1. Biochar increased the relative (+0.67-8.5 folds) and absolute amounts (0.1-104.6 mg kg-1 total solid (TS)) of the highly-bioavailable fraction of TEs (exchangeable fraction (F2)) by chemical adsorption. The conductivity of biochar increased from 4.2 to 38.4 mS m-1 after adsorbing TEs, which might explain the enrichment of conductive microorganisms (+16 folds) in the digestion system, such as Geobacter (34-fold increase). Substitution of TEs with biochar increased the absolute amounts of Methanosaeta, Mathanosarcina, Methanoculleus, and Meth-anospirillum by 72.7 %, 5.7 %, 46.1 % and 2.7 %, respectively, and propionate and butyrate oxidizing bacteria (Syntrophomonas, Syntrophobacter, and Smithella) had the highest abundance. In summary, beneficial interactions between biochar and TEs makes biochar an ideal material for reducing the amounts of TEs needed to stabilize the semi-solid anaerobic digestion (SSAD) system.

Automated summary

Solid anaerobic digestion of chicken manure leads to VFAs accumulation. Addition of TEs helps stabilize the system but excessive supplementation causes pollution. This study explores the use of biochar to reduce TE addition. Results show that biochar reduces TE supplementation by 50% and increases the bioavailability of TEs. Biochar also enriches conductive microorganisms and beneficial bacteria. Overall, biochar is an ideal material for reducing TE amounts in anaerobic digestion systems.