Enhancement of biogas production from food waste using yeast as biocatalyst

The increasing demand for sustainable energy and effective waste management has intensified interest in biogas production from organic residues. Food waste represents a readily available and highly biodegradable substrate for anaerobic digestion, yet its potential remains underutilised in many developing regions. This study investigates the enhancement of biogas production from food waste through the application of yeast as a biocatalyst and the use of an iron oxide scrubber for gas purification. Anaerobic digestion experiments were conducted using laboratory scale digester operated under mesophilic conditions for a period of 40 days. Key operational parameters, including pH, temperature, and daily biogas yield, were monitored throughout the digestion process. Two experimental setups were evaluated: a catalysed system containing yeast and non-catalysed control system. Results showed that the yeast addition significantly improved the rate of biomethanation and reduced lag phase of microbial activity. The total biogas yield obtained from the catalysed system was 13,088 cm3, compared to 9,021 cm3 from non-catalyzed system. Optimal biogas production occurred within a pH range of 6.7-7.3 and at temperatures between 31 and 34 °C. The application of an iron-oxide scrubber further improved biogas quality by removing hydrogen sulphide and other impurities. The findings demonstrate that food waste conversion to biogas, aided biocatalysts, offers a viable approach for renewable energy generation and sustainable food waste management.