Maize is one of the most widely cultivated crops globally, and its production has been increasing in recent years. Maize is commonly used for animal feed and human consumption, but it is also a valuable crop for biogas production. Biogas is an environmentally friendly energy source that can be produced from various organic materials, including maize silage.
Maize hybrids play a crucial role in biogas production, and the selection of appropriate hybrids can significantly impact the yield of biogas. Additionally, the application of macronutrients and micronutrients can also influence the yield of biogas and the energy and economic efficiency of their use. Our recent study analyzed the influence of macronutrients and micronutrients on maize hybrids for biogas production.
The study was conducted over three years (2019-2021), and we analyzed the yield of maize hybrids of different maturity groups grown for silage. The researchers examined the influence of the application of macronutrients and micronutrients on fresh and dry mass yield, chemical composition, methane yield, energy, and economic efficiency.
The results showed that depending on the maize hybrid, the application of macro- and micro-fertilizers increased the yield of the fresh mass of maize by 1.4–24.0% compared to options without their use. Additionally, the theoretical yield of CH4 based on the content of fats, protein, cellulose, and hemicellulose was evaluated in different samples of maize.
The study also found that the application of macro- and micro-fertilizers is suitable from the energy and economic points of view. The researchers noted that profitability begins to appear at the price of biomethane of 0.3–0.4 euros per 1 m3.
In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate maize hybrids and using macronutrients and micronutrients in biogas production. These factors can significantly impact the yield of biogas and the energy and economic efficiency of their use. The findings of this study can be beneficial for farmers, biogas producers, and policymakers involved in the production of biogas from maize.
You can find the article HERE.
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