Anaerobic digestion of poultry wastes and algae production from digester effluent

Results obtained in the biosynthesis of methane from poultry manures and the growth of algae on the digester effluent were reported. The algae would be used as a feed supplement for the poultry. The performance of the digester system as a poultry manure handling and disposal system was very good, but the performance as an energy producer was less than expected. Increased operating temperature was recommended. The gas produced in the system was to be used in an engine-generator set to produce electricity for farm use. Preliminary experiments with the unicellular green algae Chlorella pyrenoidose were made to optimize growth and desalination of the waste effluents. Preliminary design work has been completed on the algae growth, harvesting, and processing unit. (JSR)