Iron limitation effect on H2/CO2 biomethanation: Experimental and model analysis

Author(s)

Ebrahimian, Farinaz ; Lovato, Giovanna ; Alvarado-Morales, Merlin ; Ashraf, Muhammad Tahir ; Rodrigues, Jose Alberto Domingues ; Tsapekos, Panagiotis ; Angelidaki, Irini

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING; v. 11, n. 2, p. 9-pg., 2023-02-21.

Abstract

Trace metals are indispensable for the metalloenzymes involved for efficient H2/CO2 biomethanation. In-depth understanding of trace metals requirements of methanogens cannot only lead to robust and stable operation, but also can enhance CH4 productivity. In this study, the effect of Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Mo and W on the H2/ CO2 biomethanation was examined. In a period of nutrient deprivation, suppression of hydrogenotrophic archaea was revealed at higher feed gas rates, leading to a significant drop in CH4 content and a concomitant rise in acetic acid concentration. After nutrient supplementation, the increase in Co, Ni and Fe concentrations were pivotal factors for enhanced methanogenic activity, leading to a CH4 content of more than 98% in the outlet biogas and a sharp drop in acetic acid concentration. Moreover, mathematical modeling was employed to simulate the in-fluence of the most prominent element, iron, on the biomethanation process. The amended BioModel demon-strated that Fe limitation suppresses hydrogenotrophic archaea which consequently leads to H2 accumulation and growth of homoacetogenic bacteria. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/06246-7 - Biorefinery concept applied to biological wastewater treatment plants: environmental pollution control coupled with material and energy recovery
• Grantee: Marcelo Zaiat
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants