Effect of enzymes in fermentation biologyBy using fibrous substrates the methane formation process is supported by enzymes.Specific enzymes from different active groups support the fibre- and molecular splitting degradation processes in the hydrolysis phase. Laboratory and practical tests have proved successful. |
Know-how
Glossary
From anaerobic bacteria to sulphur dioxide - the main terms used in biogas technology are explained in our glossary. Open glossary |
|
Enzymes are specific biocatalysts which accelerate or enable biochemical reactions.
During the first step of biogas generation, called hydrolysis, the enzymes convert the substrate components (cellulose, hemicellulose, pectins, starch, proteins, lipids) into cell membrane-permeating substances (sugars, amino acids, fatty acids). Only then can the bacteria involved in the biogas process perform the subsequent stages of biogas generation. BC.ZYM provides the enzymes specifically optimised for these processes. This latest innovation in the development of enzyme mixtures solves a multitude of specific difficulties encountered in biogas facilities. |
|
|
1st active group: Fibre-splitting enzymes
The chief agent of fibre-splitting enzymes are exo-enzymes. They initially split the cellulose enclosing the fibres (hemicellulose, lignin) and pectins, and as a result expose the cellulose fibrils for further breakdown. Fragments from the fibre breakdown are involved in a further breakdown process. 2nd active group: Molecular-splitting enzymes Molecular-splitting enzymes are mainly endoenzymes. They split macromolecules, such as cellulose in sugar. |
|
|
The use of BC.ZYM results in a significantly greater crude fibre breakdown and increases the methane yield.
Test results by the ISF: The graph shows laboratory results after using BC.ZYM in maize silage fermentation. During this 7-day trial a significantly increased methane yield was achieved. |
Methane surplus in batch experiment on maize silage in the ISF biogas laboratory
|
|
At the same time, approximately 35 % more crude fibre was broken down compared with the untreated batch test (see graph below).
|
Increased raw fibre degradation in batch experiment on maize silage
|
|
The results of tests by HAWK Göttingen show a significantly increased breakdown of organic dry matter in the fermentation residue of a RRM biogas facility, amounting to 63 to 75 % in the first five days.
|
Increased breakdown of organic dry matter
|
|
Field results confirm the data obtained in the laboratory.
BC.ZYM increases the generation of electric energy. After discontinuing BC.ZYM the electricity yield drops. The feed volume has to be increased. |
Increased power production with BC.ZYM in practical application
|
