DESIGN OF BIOGAS PLANT FROM

WHEAT BRAN BASED WASTEWATER

FROM SALALAH MILLS CO. (SAOG)

A PROJECT REPORT
SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING (PHASE 1)
SUBMITTED TO

SALALAH COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING SECTION

SUPERVISED BY
Dr. Sivamani Selvaraju Er. Vasu Gajendran Dr. B.S. Naveen Prasad
Lecturer Lecturer Lecturer

SUBMITTED BY
42S12131 Ahmed Hussein Ali Al-Yafai
42J13256 Anas Salim Basheer Al Yafii
46S12147 Asraar Ahmed Salim Baalawy
42J13265 Azan Salim Dadin Al Blowshi
42S126 Fahed Awad Abdulla Al-Awadi
42S13363 Huda Naji Aashoor Al-Haddadi
42S1363 Khair Abdulhakeem Musallem Al-Rawas
42S1222 Lama Mohammed Al Abd Almashli
42S12177 Mohammed Abdullah ALi Bahjaj
42S13358 Musullm amer mohammed Al shanfari
32S12340 Zahrah Abdullah Khalfan Al-Sharji

April 2017
 Ministry of Manpower
Sultanate of Oman
Salalah College of Technology
Engineering Department

This project work (Research work) entitled DESIGN OF BIOGAS PLANT FROM
WHEAT BRAN BASED WASTEWATER FROM SALALAH MILLS CO.
(SAOG) was prepared and submitted by 42S12131 AHMED HUSSEIN ALI AL-
YAFAI, 42J13256 ANAS SALIM BASHEER AL YAFII, 46S12147 ASRAAR
AHMED SALIM BAALAWY, 42J13265 AZAN SALIM DADIN AL BLOWSHI,
42S126 FAHED AWAD ABDULLA AL-AWADI, 42S13363 HUDA NAJI
AASHOOR AL-HADDADI, 42S1363 KHAIR ABDULHAKEEM MUSALLEM AL-
RAWAS, 42S1222 LAMA MOHAMMED AL ABD ALMASHLI, 42S12177
MOHAMMED ABDULLAH ALI BAHJAJ, 42S13358 MUSULLM AMER
MOHAMMED AL SHANFARI, AND 32S12340 ZAHRAH ABDULLAH
KHALFAN AL-SHARJI in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of
BACHELOR IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING (PHASE 1) has been examined and
hereby recommended for approval and acceptance.
_______________
_________________________________________________________Project Supervisor
Approved by the COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION
____________ ____________ ____________
Panel Member Chairman Panel Member

Accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree

BACHELOR IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING (PHASE 1)
_____________ _____________________
Head of the Section Head of the Department
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We express our sincere gratitude to Dr. SIVAMANI SELVARAJU, Er. VASU

GAJENDRAN, AND Dr. B.S. NAVEEN PRASAD, Project Supervisors, for their
stimulating guidance, continuous encouragement and supervision throughout the course
of present work.

We also wish to extend my thanks to Engr. ARLENE ABUDA JOAQUIN, HoS -

Chemical engineering section for his insightful comments and constructive suggestions to
improve the quality of this project work.

We would like to place on record my deep sense of gratitude to Dr. ALI MOHSIN ISSA
RAFEET, HoD Engineering department for his generous guidance, help and useful
suggestions.

We are extremely thankful to Dr. HAMDAN BIN MOHAMMED ALI AL-

MUNTHARI, Dean, Salalah College of Technology for providing me infrastructural
facilities to work in, without which this work would not have been possible.

This research was supported by SALALAH MILLS CO. (SAOG). We are thankful to
the team since they provided expertise that greatly assisted the research. This project
consumed huge amount of work, research and dedication. Still, implementation would
not have been possible if we did not have a support of SALALAH MILLS CO.
(SAOG). Therefore we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to them.

42S12131 Ahmed Hussein Ali Al-Yafai
42J13256 Anas Salim Basheer Al Yafii
46S12147 Asraar Ahmed Salim Baalawy
42J13265 Azan Salim Dadin Al Blowshi
42S126 Fahed Awad Abdulla Al-Awadi
42S13363 Huda Naji Aashoor Al-Haddadi
42S1363 Khair Abdulhakeem Musallem Al-Rawas
42S1222 Lama Mohammed Al Abd Almashli
42S12177 Mohammed Abdullah Ali Bahjaj
42S13358 Musullm Amer Mohammed Al Shanfari
32S12340 Zahrah Abdullah Khalfan Al-Sharji

iii
 ABSTRACT

Fossil fuel is a source of non-renewable energy that contributes to environmental

pollution. Carbon-di-oxide is the main product of fossil fuels which causes an enormous
damage to the ozone layer. However the numerous problems caused by fossil fuels make
scientific community to think of solution to help saving our plant one among them is
renewable energy. Renewable energy helps in energy security, environmental pollution
abatement and social upliftment. Biogas is a source of renewable energy that is cheap to
produce and excellent substitute for natural gas. Wheat bran is the focus of attention in
this experiment because biomolecules present in it help in improving biogas production.
The experiments related to the factors such as carbon to nitrogen (C/N), biochemical
oxygen demand to chemical oxygen demand (BOD/COD) and volatile suspended solids
to total suspended solids (VSS/TSS) ratios and biogas yield. Four samples of wheat (pure
coarse wheat bran (PCWB), crude coarse wheat bran (CCWB), specific size wheat bran
(SSWB) and whole fine wheat bran (WFWB)) are used to have knowledge of which is
suitable to produce more biogas. The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas
yield respectively were 18.94, 0.372, 0.57 and 0.5 for PCWB. The ratios of C/N,
BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were 21.95, 0.774, 0.24 and 1.875
for CCWB. The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were
24.16, 0.240, 0.42 and 0.4 for WFWB. The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and
biogas yield respectively were 24.16, 0.330, 0.25 and 1.025 respectively for SSWB.
Hence, CCWB and SSWB are suitable for biogas production on a large scale based on
biogas yield.
Keywords: Anaerobic digestion, Biogas, Wastewater, Wheat bran

iv
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER CONTENTS PAGE

Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
Table of contents v
List of tables vii
List of figures viii
List of abbreviations and acronyms ix
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction 2
1.2 Aim and objectives 5
1
1.3 Problem statement 6
1.4 Structure of report 7
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Biogas production process 9
2.2 Wheat milling process 11
2
2.3 Biogas production from wheat bran 14
2.4 Merits and demerits of biogas 16
2.5 Applications of biogas 17
METHODOLOGY
3.1 Raw materials 20
3.2 Chemicals and reagents 21

3 3.3 Apparatus and equipments 22

3.4 Health and safety procedure 23
3.5 Experimental procedure 24

3.6 Test analysis procedure 25

RESULTS ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

4 4.1 Results of test analysis 33
4.2 Summary 40

v
 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5 5.1 Conclusion 43
5.2 Recommendations 44
REFERENCES 45
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Table Name Page

3.1 Chemicals and reagents used in this study 21
3.2 Apparatus and equipments used in this study 22
4.1 Moisture and total solids results (TS) 33
4.2 Total suspended solids (TSS) results 33
4.3 Total dissolved solids (TDS) results 34
4.4 Volatile suspended solids (VSS) results 34
4.5 Ash results 34
4.6 Chemical oxygen demand (COD) results 35
4.7 Dissolved oxygen (DO) and Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) results 35
4.8 Fehling's test results 36
4.9 Total soluble sugars results 37
4.10 Total starch results 37
4.11 Lipid results 37
4.12 Protein results 38
4.13 Biogas yield 39
4.14 Summary 40

vii
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Figure Name Page

1.1 Global production of biogas in 2013 2
1.2 Yield and production of wheat in Oman (2000-2010) 3
2.1 Biogas production steps 9
2.2 Wheat milling steps 11
3.1 Raw materials used in this study 20
3.2 Biodigester setup (Type I) 24
3.3 Biodigester setup (Type II) 24
4.1 Standard curve for glucose 36
4.2 pH results 38
 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

Acronym Description
AD Anaerobic digester
BOD Biological/Biochemical oxygen demand
C/N Carbon to nitrogen ratio
CCWB Crude coarse wheat bran
COD Chemical oxygen demand
CR Compression ratio
DO Dissolved oxygen
HC Hydrocarbon
kton Kilotonne
kcal/m3 Kilocalorie per cubic meter
kL Kilolitre
mg/L Milligram per litre
PCWB Pure coarse wheat bran
pH Power of hydrogen
PME Pongamia oil methyl ester
POME Palm oil methyl ester
ppm Parts per million
RBME Rice bran oil methyl ester
SSWB Specific size wheat bran
TDS Total dissolved solids
TS Total solids
TSS Total suspended solids
VSS Volatile suspended solids
WFWB Whole fine wheat bran

ix
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 Biogas

1.1.2 Wheat

1.1.3 Salalah Mills Co. (SAOG)

1.2 Aim and objectives

1.2.1 Aim

1.2.2 Objectives

1.3 Problem statement

1.4 Structure of report

1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.1.1 Biogas
Biogas is a biofuel is also called digester gas, and usually means any gas fuel derived
from the decay of organic matter or organic material that has come from a recently living
organism. Biogas is a mixture consisting of methane CH4 and carbon dioxide CO2
produced with the breakdown of organic material without oxygen by anaerobic digestion.
Biogas can be used as a vehicle fuel or for generating electricity. It can also be burned
directly for cooking, heating, lighting, process heat and absorption refrigeration.

Typical gas compositions for carbohydrate feeds are 55% methane and 45%
carbon dioxide, while for fats the gas contains as much as 75% methane. Pure methane
has a calorific value of 9,100 kcal/m3 at 15.5C and 1 atmosphere and the calorific value
of biogas varies from 4,800 - 6,900 kcal/m3. In terms of energy equivalents 1.33 - 1.87,
and 1.5 - 2.1 m3 of biogas are equivalent to one liter of gasoline and diesel fuel. Biogas
has an approximate specific gravity of 0.86 and a flame speed factor of 11.1, which is
low, and therefore the flame will burners which are not properly designed. The figure
below shows statistic displays the leading countries based on global production of biogas
in 2013 ( Statista 2017). The production of biogas totaled 15.5 billion cubic meters in
China, 13.13 billion cubic meters in Germarry, 12.3 billion cubic meters in US , 3.54
billion cubic meters in UK and 3.52 billion cubic meters in Italy. [1]

16
Biogas production (in billion

14
12
10
m3)

8
6
4
2
0
China Germany United States United Italy
Kingdom
Country
Figure 1.1 Global production of biogas in 2013

2
1.1.2 Wheat
Wheat is one of the top three most produced crops in the world, along with corn and rice.
Wheat has been cultivated for over 10,000 years. Today, wheat is a grass that grows
between 2 and 4 feet (0.6 to 1.2 meters) tall. There are three parts to a wheat kernel: the
bran is the hard outer covering of the wheat kernel it contains important antioxidants, B
vitamins and ber. The germ is the nutrient-rich embryo that will sprout and grow into a
new wheat plant it contains many B vitamins, some protein, minerals, and healthy fats
and the third part is endosperm is the biggest part of the kernel It contains starchy
carbohydrates, proteins and small amounts of vitamins and minerals. In 100 grams wheat
provides 327 calories and is a rich source of multiple essential nutrients.

Figure 1.2 Yield and production of wheat in Oman (2000-2010) [2]

The figure shows the yield and production of wheat in Oman from 2000 to 2010. It can
be clearly seen that the production and yield of wheat in Oman has been constant from
2001 to 2002 a period of two years where in the production and harvested quantity
remain the same of 1:4 ratio.

Till 2002 the figures remain the same; however by 2003 the graph shows a slight decline
in the amount of wheat harvested, which is shown as below 400 tonnes while the amount
of wheat yield is shown as a slight increase above 400 tonnes.

3
The year 2004 shows a slightly noticeable increase in harvest and production. But the
figure shows a drastic dip in the harvest of wheat in the year 2005 which means the
harvest of wheat in Oman reached the bottom line of below 200 tonnes which indicates
that though the production was 1 kton the harvest was as low as 200 tonnes.

The production and harvest in 2006 to 2007 shows a very slight variation as of what was
in 2002 however showing just a slight change in the figures. 2007 to 2008 also shows the
same figures as the year before.

As the graph indicates there has been a good increase in the production as well as the
harvest of wheat in the year 2008 to 2009 that is there is a growth of 2 k tones of
production to 600 tonnes of harvest. [3]

1.1.3 Salalah Mills Co. (SAOG)

Established in 1995, Salalah Mills Co. (SAOG) is a leading company engaged in milling
and distributing premium quality wheat products in Oman and exporting to Africa and
other international markets.

Salalah Mills Co. SAOG (SMC) is an Omani joint stock company engaged in the milling
of wheat and selling of flour, bran and feed. The products of SMC include bread flour,
baking flour, chakki atta, jareesh, harees, semolina, barley, wheat, barley and bran mix,
wheat bran and feed flour.

The company is located at the Raysut Industrial Estate in the southern region of Oman.
The company markets its products primarily in three geographical areas, namely Oman,
Africa and other countries. The companys subsidiary Salalah Macaroni Company SAOC
is involved in the production of macaroni pasta and related food products. [4]

4
1.2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

1.2.1 Aim
To produce biogas from wheat bran based wastewater from Salalah mills.

1.2.2 Objectives:
To analyse wheat bran based wastewater for total solid(TS),total suspended
solid(TSS), total dissolved solid(TDS),volatile suspended solid(VSS), chemical
oxygen demand(COD), biochemical oxygen demand(BOD), dissolved oxygen(DO),
ash, sugars, starch, lipids, proteins and pH.
To study the effect of camel dung on biogas production
To produce biogas in anaerobic digester on laboratory scale.
To analyze parameters after anaerobic digestion.
To design a biogas plant based on wheat bran wastewater from Salalah mills.

5
1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Biogas is one of the renewable energies that human needs in the future with fossil
fuel shortages and nearly into force.
Therefore humans find other solutions that help the continuity of mankind and find
natural problems by the fossil fuel solutions, whether on greenhouse gas emissions or
bridge offal.
With this in mind we have by selecting this project the interest of the importance of
renewable energy and consumer value, and it's innocuous, such as oil and its
derivatives.
Our project relies on wheat bran, which is the source of available and dramatically in
the countries and the world as wheat bran that some factories are rid of them and
make them feed the animal.
The wheat we take because of large scale of use. We tried to convert the by-product
(or) waste to value added product such as biogas.

6
1.4 STRUCTURE OF REPORT

Chapter 1 contains introduction showing the introduction of biogas and wheat, also
aim and objectives and problem statement.
Chapter 2 gives an overview and background of biogas production process and wheat
milling process .also the merits, demerits and application of biogas production.
Chapter 3 presents the procedure of all the analysis and all the readings.
Chapter 4 provides the results and discussion of all the analysis.
Chapter 5 concludes the result in phase 1 work.

7
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Biogas production process

2.2 Wheat milling process

2.3 Biogas production from wheat bran

2.4 Merits and demerits of biogas

2.5 Applications of biogas

8
2.1 BIOGAS PRODUCTION PROCESS

The process of producing energy from the organic materials such as animals manure;
waste papers and sewage by cutting the oxygen to force rumen anaerobic bacteria to
produce biogas. In India itself, there are more than 3 million small-scale biogas plants
and in china 7 million. In addition, in the Europe Union, biomass could amount 1545
million tons per year. Incorporation of municipal organic wastes such as food to the AD
production helps to raise the amount of produced energy. Also, paper waste can be an
additional source of enhanced biogas production. Anaerobic digestion is a multistep
biological and chemical process that is beneficial in not only waste management but also
energy creation. There are four fundamental steps of anaerobic digestion that include
hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and methanogenesis. Throughout this entire
process, large organic polymers that make up Biomass are broken down into smaller
molecules by chemicals and microorganisms. Upon completion of the anaerobic
digestion process, the Biomass is converted into Biogas, namely carbon dioxide and
methane, as well as digestate and wastewater.

Hydrolysis Acidogenesis Acetogenesis Methanogenesis

Figure 2.1 Biogas production steps

The four key stages of anaerobic digestion involve hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis
and methanogenesis. The overall process can be described by the chemical reaction,
where organic material such as glucose is biochemically digested into carbon dioxide
(CO2) and methane (CH4) by the anaerobic microorganisms. [5]
C6H12O6 3 CH4 + 3 CO2
Monomers Methane Carbondioxide

9
2.1.1 Hydrolysis
In general, hydrolysis is a chemical reaction in which the breakdown of water occurs to
form H+ cations and OH- anions. Hydrolysis is often used to break down larger polymers,
often in the presence of an acidic catalyst. In anaerobic digestion, hydrolysis is the
essential first step, as Biomass is normally comprised of very large organic polymers,
which are otherwise unusable. Through hydrolysis, these large polymers, namely
proteins, fats and carbohydrates, are broken down into smaller molecules such as amino
acids, fatty acids, and simple sugars. While some of the products of hydrolysis, including
hydrogen and acetate, may be used by methanogens later in the anaerobic digestion
process, the majority of the molecules, which are still relatively large, must be further
broken down in the process of acidogenesis so that they may be used to create methane.

2.1.2 Acidogenesis
Acidogenesis is the next step of anaerobic digestion in which acidogenic microorganisms
further break down the Biomass products after hydrolysis. These fermentative bacteria
produce an acidic environment in the digestive tank while creating ammonia, H2, CO2,
H2S, shorter volatile fatty acids, carbonic acids, alcohols, as well as trace amounts of
other byproducts. While acidogenic bacteria further breaks down the organic matter, it is
still too large and unusable for the ultimate goal of methane production, so the biomass
must next undergo the process of acetogenesis.

2.1.3 Acetogenesis
In general, acetogenesis is the creation of acetate, a derivative of acetic acid, from carbon
and energy sources by acetogens. These microorganisms catabolize many of the products
created in acidogenesis into acetic acid, CO2 and H2. Acetogens break down the Biomass
to a point to which Methanogens can utilize much of the remaining material to create
Methane as a Biofuel.

2.1.4 Methanogenesis
Methanogenesis constitutes the final stage of anaerobic digestion in which methanogens
create methane from the final products of acetogenesis as well as from some of the

10
intermediate products from hydrolysis and acidogenesis. While CO2 can be converted
into methane and water through the reaction, the main mechanism to create methane in
methanogenesis is the path involving acetic acid. This path creates methane and CO2, the
two main products of anaerobic digestion.

2.2 WHEAT MILLING PROCESS

Wheat is not just wheat. Six classes and several hundred varieties of wheat make possible
the hundreds of wheat foods made worldwide. For example, hard wheat flours provide
for a variety of bread products; durum semolina and flour are used in pasta. Soft wheat
flours produce an array of crackers, cookies, cereals, cakes, pancakes, breading and
pastries. Three general operations are usually involved: cleaning, tempering, milling and
sieving. [6]

Cleaning Tempering Milling Sieving

Figure 2.2 Wheat milling steps

2.2.1 Cleaning
Wheat unloaded from a truck, in an elevator factory contains a large proportion of the
nucleus of non-wheat components, the so-called "taxi". The fare is made up of other
kinds of seeds, backward or improper wheat grains, insects, stems, stones and other
debris typically found in a wheat field. By grinding, and must remove this debris, it is
done in the cleaning of wheat to mills section.

Although many of the existing hardware to clean wheat, they are classified all based on a
chapter in terms of size, shape, density and magnetism. Different factories vary greatly
with respect to the order of operations in the cleaning process. Usually, one of the first
season removes any iron in wheat using magnetic separators. Remove metals early in the
process helps to avoid equipment damage farther downstream.

11
Separation may be the next milling, to remove sticks and stones, stems, and other plant
debris. It is removed, lighter and less dense components in wheat here by ambition. Air
circulates upwards through the grain and feeds it to break, and directs the lighter material
away from the wheat kernels. Then wheat falls to the sieve, and wheat, which is allowed
to pass but retains large stones and seeds. Last sieve followed that retains wheat and
allowed to pass through the small seeds.

Disk separates the wheat from the other grain interval of equal intensity and is likely to
be included in the cleaning process as well. This device separates the grain on the basis of
shape. Pockets in the rotating disks accept the seeds of some of the lengths and reject
those other sizes. Generally there are more than one disk separators. One will accept
wheat and other will reject wheat to remove all large and small grains. It is removed dirt
or mold stick wheat kernels to a large extent by using scourer. This device uses a screen
or abrasive surface to remove any materials adhering to the nucleus.

The separation of materials such as small stones similar in size to a grain of wheat on the
basis of density is done in the gravity table or dry stoner. Gravity plane oscillating table
tilted. Denser materials such as stones move down the table faster than lighter material.
Dry Stoner removes dense material with sufficient ambition to collect grain and let the
stones on the spill

2.2.2 Tempering
Is the addition of predetermined amounts of water to grow wheat during specific periods.
And it stresses the bran, making it easier to separate from the endosperm and germ. It
also softens the endosperm, allowing it to break away with less force. It includes calmed
adjust the level of moisture in wheat.

For soft wheat, it brings optimum ease grain -15.0 to 13.5% moisture, and it takes 6-10
hours. For hard wheat, and the final moisture from 15.5 to 16.5%, and the times that
calmed 12-18 hours. Wheat is contained in generally lower moisture content than that; it

12
is here, and usually add water and grain were allowed to equilibrate for a period of time.
This time varies, depending largely on the hardness of the wheat.

Conditioning of wheat refers to the application of heat in the hardening process to

increase the penetration of moisture in the grain price. Temperatures below 50C working
temperature during the conditioning to ensure the function of precision components,
especially gluten, retains.

2.2.3 Milling
At this stage, the wheat is ready for milling and starts through the various systems in the
factory. The first machine in almost every factory is a roller mill. Two laps of one chapter
rotates clockwise and counter-clockwise again, it is called a small distance "gap.I " One
of the lists usually rotates faster than the other.

As a result, at the national implementation plan, due to the rolls of wheat and face cutting
work as well as work crushing turnover and it works first roller mills to break the system.
This is part of the grinding process designed to remove the endosperm from the bran and
germ.

Laps in the process that called the cut "corrugations" spiral parallel to the long axis of
each roll. There are generally about five roller mills or five "breaks" in the system. Germ
are removed in the first two breaks, a lot of bran. This flexible MRSA tend to flatten
when it goes through the rollers. Bran particles are usually in the form of small flakes of
low density. These properties allow plants to separate the germ and bran, endosperm
fractional part. After each break, a group of sieves and / or purification devices (suction)
separating the ground material in terms of size and density.

2.2.4 Sieving
Directed small molecules in the flour bag, either remove large particles (as is the case
with the germ and bran) or sent to the next break (as it happens for cutting large)
endosperm. Once the isolation of the endosperm, and the reduction of large molecules

13
that produce (called intermediate outputs) to reduce system size distribution of particles
in accordance with the flour. This means that they must be able to pass through the
opening of 136 microns.

Reels in reducing smooth system, running at lower spreads, providing crushing action can
produce fine particles of flour (although a small amount of shear is still important). A
large percentage of molecules consisting of flour comes from the final lists of the
reduction. Flour from the end of the first half, and reduce the rolls can be combined in
many ways to create different types of flour, but usually secreted it again in the locker
exact order and passes through sieves meet the standard for particle size flour and
dissemination of large molecules to the appropriate point in the milling process.

Flour can be further treated with chlorine or bleaching agent depending on customer
requirements. In the feed mill system, the germ and bran separated from each other, and
are removed adhering to the endosperm. It called coarse bran from early breaks "bran"
and compose about 11% of the total products from the factory. It called pityroides
material finer than the subsequent steps pants, which represents about 15% of the total. It
is retrieved germ generally at a rate of about 2 to 3.0% of the total wheat depending on
the type of equipment used. These special products or ingredients for human
consumption and is usually sold as feed for the animals in our country.

2.3 BIOGAS PRODUCTION FROM WHEAT BRAN

Cioabl et al. (2013) intends to underline the potential usage of agricultural biomass
(namely wheat bran and cereal mixture) as renewable source of energy for biogas
production. Factorial design of experiments was employed to study the effect of two
factors (net calorific value and C/N ratio) on total biogas produced after 65 days of
anaerobic digestion. Main effects and interaction effects of these factors were analyzed
using statistical techniques. A regression model was obtained to predict the total biogas
production and it was found to adequately fit the experimental range studied. [7]

14
Cioabl et al. (2012) carried out an anaerobic digestion of damaged corn kernels and
wheat bran in a biogas pilot plant under mesophilic temperature conditions. Inorder to
ensure process stability and consequently a good rate of digestion and a high biogas
production (CH4 and CO2), the system temperature and its pH have been monitored and
maintained at acceptable levels over 65 days of retention time period. Conclusions were
taken over the obtained results in terms of quality and quantity of the produced biogas
with consideration of the cereal substrate potential under the used technology. [8]

Cioabl et al. (2012) focuses on depicting an optional way of capitalizing agricultural

biomass residues using anaerobic fermentation in order to obtain biogas with satisfactory
characteristics. The research is based on wheat bran and a mix of damaged ground grains
substrates for biogas production. [9]

Narayani and Priya (2012) presented biogas production from fruit wastes at ambient
temperature using anaerobic batch digester (500 ml). Co-digestion of fruit wastes were
carried out with rice bran and cow dung. From chromatographic studies, sample B has
maximum methane content (80%) and sample C has maximum carbon-di-oxide content
(50%). Cow dung influences digestion of fruit wastes and showed highest yield (405 mg)
of biogas production. [10]

Bora and Saha (2016) attempt to unfold the effect of compression ratio on performance,
combustion and emission characteristics of a rice bran biodiesel biogas run dual fuel
diesel engine. For experimentation, a single fuel diesel engine is converted into a biogas
run dual fuel diesel engine. On an average, there is a reduction in carbon monoxide and
hydrocarbon emissions by 17.67% and 17.18% when CR is increased from 17 to 18.
However, for the same setting of CRs, there is an increase of oxides of nitrogen as well as
carbon dioxide emissions by 42.85% and 14.13%, respectively. [11]

Bora and Saha (2015) attempted to explore the potential of three different types of
biodiesel viz. Rice bran oil methyl ester (RBME), Pongamia oil methyl ester (PME) and
Palm oil methyl ester (POME) as pilot fuels for a biogas run dual fuel diesel engine

15
designed for power generation. Furthermore, on an average, the HC emissions for PME-
biogas and POME-biogas increased by 11.73% and 16.27%, respectively in comparison
to RBME-biogas. On the other hand, on an average, there was a decrease in NOX
emission by 5.8% and 14%, respectively for PME-biogas and POME-biogas respectively
in comparison to RBME-biogas. [12]

2.4 MERITS AND DEMERITS OF BIOGAS

2.4.1 Merits of Biogas

1. Biogas is considered to be a renewable source of energy. Because most of the
materials in the form of wastewater produced, just when it is weak, we have to stop
producing any waste.
2. Landfill also use the waste products in the landfill, dump sites and farms all
over the country, allowing for the reduction of soil and water pollution.
3. Biogas is also intended to be non-polluting in nature. Biogas production not needs
oxygen, which means that resources are not using any more fuel.
4. In any case, job opportunities for thousands of people in the plants are created. The
blessing of jobs in rural areas, which are areas targeted for use of biogas. In fact,
biogas can easily be decentralized, making it easier to get access to those living
in remote areas or the on the verge of frequent power outages.
5. The use of landfill gas as forms of energy production reduces greenhouse effect. This
is an important reason why the use of biogas has begun is catching on.
6. Biogas recycles many shapes and working on simple forms and technology.
7. Biogas is easy to set up and needs little investment on a small scale. In fact, a lot of
farms can make use of biogas plants and waste products produced by their livestock
every day. Waste products cow can only provide enough to power a light bulb all day
in a day [13]

2.4.2 Demerits of Biogas

1. Systems are already in place to build biogas is not as efficient as they are. Little new
technology to simplify the process and make it more affordable introduced. As a

16
 consequence, large-scale industrial production of biogas is still on the energy map.
Although it can solve the energy issues faced by countries around the world, very few
investors willing to put up the initial capital. The best idea is to build a biogas plant at
home, which means that a system should be put into place, is not central.
2. Biogas contains a number of impurities even after refining processes have been put in
place. When used as fuel for compression, it can become corrosive to metal parts of
the engines.
3. Biogas is somewhat unsustainable, and it is prone to explosion if the methane comes
in contact with oxygen and flammable nature has become.
4. The use of biogas on a large scale is not economically viable and it is very difficult to
increase the efficiency of the biogas system.
5. Even with all the disadvantages the present, countries have begun to request the use
of biogas in everyday life. Public transport has been extended and built with the help
of efficient CNG. The future use of biogas is clear, even with the problems it is
facing. [13]

2.5 APPLICATIONS OF BIOGAS

The biogas can be stored without difficulty, and that means it can be used at any time in
any place regardless of where it is produced. Hybrid power plants. They combine the
various renewable energy sources to complement each other, such that the amount of
energy required is always at hand. Because ready for storage, biogas is especially
valuable here, as it is able to compensate for the fluctuations in other renewable energy
sources such as wind power and solar energy. [14]

Heat and energy from a single source: has a biogas production also have an indirect effect
on climate protection. This is controlled fermentation of liquid manure and waste
composting prevents the release of harmful gases such as methane, which have a far
greater global warming effect of CO2. In the modern amenities for waste management,
biogas can be used to run any kind of heat engine for power generation or mechanical. It
can be compressed, such as natural gas, to control the car. [15]

17
After treatment, biogas can also be directly injected into the existing natural gas network.
In this scenario, it exploits the infrastructure available and find application as equivalent
to natural gas (known as biomethane). [16]

Biogas as a fuel: Can also be used for the production of biogas as an alternative to natural
gas and motor fuel. Energy that can be stored and used at the drop of a hat [17]

18
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Raw materials

3.2 Chemicals and reagents

3.3 Apparatus and equipments

3.4 Health and safety procedure

3.5 Experimental procedure

3.6 Test analysis procedure

19
3.1 RAW MATERIALS

3.1.1 Wheat
Wheat is defined as a cereal grain that yields fine white flour used chiefly in breads.
Wheat contains approximately51% protein,44% carbohydrates and 5% fat. Problems
caused by these carbohydrates are not the same thing as blood sugar problems caused by
the carbohydrates in other cereals. Wheat contains endosperm, germ and bran. Wheat
bran is a by-product of mills industries, it can use in animal feed. Wheat quality targets
will depend on the end users required specification e.g. livestock feed or milling for
bread or biscuit flour. The main traits to consider are grain protein and starch content.
Bakers flour, bread flour, germ and bran are the various products from wheat. Wheat
bran samples use in this study collected from Salalah Mills. [2]

CCWB PCWB WFWB SSWB

Figure 3.1 Raw materials used in this study

i) Crude Coarse Wheat Bran (CCWB): It is very hard in touch and it has big size
of particles also it can be used as animal feeds.
ii) Pure Coarse Wheat Bran (PCWB): It is hard in touch and it has medium size of
particles.
iii) Whole Fine Wheat Bran (WFWB): It is soft in touch and has small particles.
iv) Specific Size of Wheat Bran (SSWB): Preparation of Specific Size of Wheat
Bran by sieving. Arrange a set of standard screens serially in a stack with the
smallest mesh at the bottom and the largest at the top. Place the pan at the bottom.
After placing 200g of the sample shake for 10 min then weigh the particle from

20
 each mesh individually. The size from 0.5mm to 1mm has the largest quantity of
particles. It is very soft in touch and has very small particles.

3.2 CHEMICALS AND REAGENTS

Table 3.1 Chemicals and reagents used in this study

Chemicals and reagents Preparation
Mix 80 ml of ethanol with 20 ml of distilled
80% (v/v) ethanol
water in 100 ml volumetric flask.
Concentration of commercially available
9.2 mol/l perchloric acid
perchloric acid is available at 9.2 M.
Fehling's solution A is prepared by addition of
7 g copper sulphate pentahydrate in 100 mL
distilled water containing 2 drops of dilute
sulfuric acid.
Fehling's solution B is prepared by addition of
Fehlings reagent
35 g of potassium tartrate and 12g of sodium
hydroxide in 100 ml of distilled water.
Mix equal volume of Fehlings solution A and
Fehlings solution B for Fehlings reagent. It is
used for estimation of reducing sugars.
Mix 11.11 ml of concentrated sulphuric acid in
Sulphuric acid
100 ml distilled water.
Mix 39.2 g of ferrous ammonium sulphate with
500 ml of distilled water .Add 10 ml of
Ammonium Ferrous Sulphate
concentrated sulphuric acid to dissolve then fill
volumetric flask with water up to mark.
Mix 3.97 g of potassium dichromate with
65.38 ml of concentrated sulphuric acid and 13
Potassium Dichromate
g of mercuric sulphate then fill volumetric
flask with water up to mark.

21
 Dissolve 1.5 g 10-phenanthroline and 0.7 g
Ferroin indicator solution
ferrous sulfate in 100ml distilled water.
Mix equal volume of chloroform and
Chloroform/methanol
methanol.

3.3 APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENTS

Table 3.2 Apparatus and equipments used in this study

Apparatus and equipments Purpose
Used in chemistry as a surface to evaporate a liquid, to hold
Glass dish
solids while being weighed
Measuring cylinder Used to measure the volume of a liquid
Funnel Used to channel liquid
Spatula Used to mix, spread and lift material
Volumetric flask Used for precise dilutions and preparation of standard solutions
Used as simple container for stirring, mixing and heating
Beakers
liquids
Gloves Used to protect the hands from the chemicals
Mask Used to protect the nose, the mouth and respiratory system
Used to incubate samples in water at a constant temperature
Water bath
over a long period of time
Hot air oven Used to heat the test in different temperature
Muffle furnace Used for high-temperature heating
Magnetic Stirrer Used to rotate the solution.
Silica crucible Used in ash determination
An instrument used to measure how much a chemical substance
Spectrophotometer absorbs light by measuring the intensity of light as a beam of
light passes through sample solution.
DO meter Measure amount of oxygen dissolved in a body of water.
pH meter Used to measure the pH of the samples

22
 A machine with a rapidly rotating container that applies
Centrifuge
Centrifugal force to its contents, typically to separate fluids of
different densities or liquids from solids.

3.4 HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE MATERIALS

Safety goggles must be worn at all times while you are in the laboratory.
Do not contact lenses in laboratory. Even when the safety goggles are worn, various
fumes may accumulate under the lens and cause serious injuries or blindness.
Closed toe shoes and long pants must be worn in the laboratory. Do not ware sandals
and shorts.
Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed in the laboratory.
Always wash your hands before leaving lab.
The location of the safety and first-aid equipment must be known for everyone. This
includes fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and eye-wash stations.
Follow the instructor immediately in case of an accident.
Do not use common reagents anywhere near open flames, for example, alcohols and
acetone. Because they are highly flammable.
Always pour acids into water. If you pour water into acid, the heat of reaction will
cause the water to explode into steam, sometimes violently, and the acid will splatter.
If chemicals come into contact with your skin or eyes, flush immediately with
copious amounts of water and consult with your instructor.
Dispose of chemicals properly. Waste containers will be provided. Unless you are
explicitly told otherwise, assume that only water may be put in the lab sinks.
Clean up all broken glassware immediately and dispose of the broken glass properly
[18]

23
3.5 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

3.5.1 Preparation of wastewater

Wheat bran samples collected from Salalah Mills in polythene bag. 75 kg of wheat bran
was mixed with 2 kL of water [7]. The samples were prepared by dissolving 200 g in 5
liter of water for characterization.

3.5.2 Anaerobic digestion

Figure 3.2 Biodigester setup (Type I)

Three glass conical flasks (500 ml) were used to make a simple digester each have a
rubber cone in which it was curved into an exact size of the conical flask to ensure that no
gas can escape. The first conical flask had 10 g of whole fine wheat bran and 250 ml of
distilled water, flask is connected to the second flask by a rubber pipe and was filled with
water in which the methane will be collected .the third flask is connected in the same
manner but the rubber cone of the third flask had a hole in which a glass pipe was
installed, the use of this pipe is to make the unwanted gas to leave the system.

Figure 3.3 Biodigester setup (Type II)

24
Three plastic bottles (2000 ml) were used to make simple biodigesters to produce biogas
from wheat bran wastewater. The samples of wastewater were used in this type of
digester is pure coarse wheat bran, crude coarse wheat bran and specific size of wheat
bran (0.5-1mm). The feed to the digester was prepared by mixing 40 g of wheat bran
sample and 1000 ml of distilled water and mix well. The mixture was fed into first bottle.
The gas collector bottle is connected and filled with 400 ml of distilled water and it was
then connected to third bottle and fill it with 200 ml of distil water. Make sure there is no
gas leaking in first two bottles. In the last bottle make small hole to release unwanted
gases. The biogas produced was determined by noting the quantity of water displaced
from the gas collector bottle into third bottle.

3.6 TEST ANALYSIS PROCEDURE

3.6.1 Moisture determination [19]

Take empty glass dish and weight it. Let the mass be W1.
0.5 g of wastewater is weight and taken in glass dish. Let the mass be W2.
Place the glass dish in hot air oven at 105oC to constant weight.
After that measure the weight of glass dish. Let the mass be W3.

% = 100

( )
% = 100
( )
where
W1 = mass of empty glass dish.
W2 = mass of sample plus mass of empty glass dish before draying.
W3 = mass of sample plus mass of empty glass dish after draying.

3.6.2 Total solids (TS) determination [19]

% = 100 %
Moisture and total solids constitute any sample. Some sample contains more solids and
less water. Some samples contain more liquid and less water. If moisture content is

25
greater than 50%, then the sample should express in total solids. If moisture content is
less than 50%, then the sample should express in moisture content.

3.6.3 Total suspended solids (TSS) determination [19]

Take empty glass dish and weight it. Let the mass be W1.
Add 0.5 g of wastewater sample in glass dish and filter it. Weigh the residue. Let the
mass be W2.
Place the glass dish in hot air oven at 105oC for 3 hours.
After that measure the weight of glass dish. Let be W3.

% = 100

( )
% = 100
( )
where
W1 = mass of empty glass dish.
W2 = mass of sample plus mass of empty glass dish before draying.
W3 = mass of sample plus mass of empty glass dish after draying.

3.6.4 Total dissolved solids (TDS) determination [19]

Total suspended solids and dissolved solids constitute total solids. Total suspended solids
are not dissolved in water whereas total dissolved solids (TDS) are dissolved in water.
Generally, TSS is determined using oven.
% =% %

3.6.5 Volatile suspended solids (VSS) determination [19]

Take empty silica crucible and weight it. Let the mass be W1.
0.5 g of wastewater is weight and taken in silica crucible. Let the mass be W2.
Place silica crucible in muffle furnace at 550oC for 3 hours.
After that measure the weight of silica crucible. Let the mass be W3.

% = 100

26
 ( )
% = 100
( )
where
W1 = mass of empty silica crucible.
W2 = mass of sample plus silica crucible before draying.
W3 = mass of sample plus silica crucible after draying.

Volatile suspended solids provide a rough approximation of the amount of organic matter
present in the solid fraction of wastewater, activated sludge, and industrial wastes. It is a
part of total suspended solids.

3.6.6 Ash determination [19]

Take empty silica crucible and weight it. Let the mass be W1.
0.5 g of wastewater is weight and taken in silica crucible. Let the mass be W2.
Place silica crucible in muffle furnace at 550oC for 6 hours.
After that measure the weight of silica crucible. Let the mass be W3.

% = 100

( )
% = 100
( )
where
W1 = mass of empty silica crucible.
W2 = mass of sample plus silica crucible before draying.
W3 = mass of sample plus silica crucible after draying.

3.6.7 Chemical oxygen demand (COD) determination [19]

Pipette 2.5 mL of each sample and blank in two conical flasks.
Add 1.5 mL of digestion solution (K2Cr2O7) to the each flask and mix.
Add 3.5 mL of catalyst solution (H2SO4) carefully down the side of flasks.
Close flasks tightly and shake to mix layer. Be careful that the flasks are hot.
Place flakss in an oven at 150C and heat for two hours.

27
 Remove, mix, and cool flasks. Allow any precipitate to settle.
Add few drops of ferroin indicator.
Fill the burette with the ferrous ammonium sulphate (FAS) solution, adjust to
zero.
Titrate samples and blank with the FAS taken in the burette.
End point of the titration is the appearance of the reddish brown colour.
Note down the volume of ferrous ammonium sulphate solution added for the blank
and sample.
mg ( ) 8000
=
L
where
A = ml of FAS used for blank.
B = ml of FAS used for sample.
N = Normality of FAS.
8000 is milliequivalents of oxygen

3.6.8 Dissolved oxygen (DO) determination [19]

To determine the levels of dissolved oxygen in waste water we need DO meter and
sensor.
Preparation the wastewater by taking 2g of each sample in 50 ml water in the beakers.
Measure the DO value by immersing the sensor in the each sample and note the
readings.

3.6.9 Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) determination [19]

After taking all the readings of dissolved oxygen test put the samples in the incubator
for five days.
Take the samples out and measure dissolved oxygen values after five days by
immersing the sensor in the each sample and notes the readings.
Calculate difference between the before and after dissolved oxygen values and you
will find the oxygen consumption in wastewater.

28
 mg
=
L
where
D1 is initial value of dissolved oxygen
D2 is final value dissolved oxygen
f is dilution factor

3.6.10 Total soluble sugars determination [20]

In 10 mL centrifuge tubes, 0.3 g each of dried samples was taken and 3 ml of warm
80% ethanol was added.
Warm 80% ethanol was added to separate soluble sugars.
Samples are centrifuged at 5000rpm for 10min.
The residues were stored for the estimation of starch content, where the separated
were collected and the extraction was repeated thrice by centrifugation at 5000 rpm
for 10 min.
Take four test tubes and in each test tube take 5 mL of the solution in and mixed with
10 ml of Fehling's reagent.
The samples were mixed well and heated at 60C in water bath for 20 min.
Absorbance was measured at 573 nm spectrophotometrically

3.6.11 Total starch determination [20]

The residues obtained after the extraction of sugars were rinsed with 20-30 mL
distilled water in 50 mL flask.
The solutions were gelatinized in boiling water for 15 min and cooled down.
2 mL of cold 9.2 mol/l perchloric acid was added to the solution.
The mixtures were again gelatinized in boiling water for 15 min.
Distilled water was added to the samples to make the final volume to 50 mL and
mixed thoroughly.
Sugar was estimated by Fehling's method as explained above.

29
3.5.12 Lipid determination [21]
Take empty watch glass and weight it. Let the mass be W1
0.5 g of sample is weight and taken in glass watch let the mass be W2
Prepare Solvent mixture of 20 ml Chloroform and 20 ml methanol
Grinding for 20 minutes.
Centrifuge at 3000 rpm for 5 minutes.
Separated the Lipids layer
Measure the weight of lipids let be W3

% = 100

( )
% = 100
( )
where
W1 = mass of empty watch glass
W2 = mass of sample plus empty watch glass before centrifuge
W3 = mass of lipid plus empty watch glass after centrifuge

3.6.13 Protein determination [22]

Estimation of protein in a sample by Kjeldahl method involves three stages digestion,
distillation and titration.

a. Digestion
Grind the grain in laboratory break mill.
Weigh out 1.4 g of sample and transfer without loss to the gelatinizing tube.
Add catalyst mixture (5 g potassium sulphate, a knife-point of copper sulphate and 15
ml concentrated sulphuric acid).
This mixture is boiled until clear (greenish) and then boiled for further 30 minutes.
The sulphuric vapours are sucked off.
Leave to cool and add approximately 50 ml of distilled water.

30
b. Distillation
Add 100 ml of 2% (w/v) boric acid as indicator to Erlenmeyer flask.
The colour of the solution will change to violet (purple).
Place Erlenmeyer flask to the apparatus in such a way that the tip of the condenser is
in the solution
Let the solution cool and add 100 ml of 33% (w/v) NaOH solution and mix together.
Immediately connect the Kjeldahl flask to the condenser and put the flask on the
heater.
Heat until all the nitrogen has distilled into the receiver solution (atleast 100 ml).
The colour will change to green.

c. Titration
Titrate the receiver solution in the Erlenmeyer flask with 0.1 N H2SO4 solution until
the colour changes from green to violet.

3.6.14 pH determination [19]

Measure 2g of sample mixed 50ml of distillate water in beaker
Measure the pH value by immersing the electrode of the pH meter into the beaker.
Repeat that for all samples and note the readings.

31
 CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Results of test analysis

4.2 Summary

32
4.1 RESULTS OF TEST ANALYSIS

4.1.1 Moisture and total solids (TS) results

Table 4.1 Moisture and total solids (TS) results
Sample W1 (g) W2 (g) W3 (g) % Moisture % TS
PCWB 51.76 56.28 51.88 97.35 2.65
CCWB 52.31 57.41 52.46 97.06 2.94
WFWB 52.32 56.73 52.43 97.51 2.49
SSWB 52.13 56.78 52.25 97.42 2.58

Moisture and total solids constitute any sample. Some sample contains more solids and
less water. Some samples contain more liquid and less water. If moisture content is
greater than 50%, then the sample should express in total solids. The percentage of
Moisture for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 97.35, 97.06, 97.51 and 97.42
respectively. The percentage Moisture of all samples is greater than 50%. WFWB contain
more amount of moisture.

4.1.2 Total suspended solids (TSS) results

Table 4.2 Total suspended solids (TSS) results
Sample W1 (g) W2 (g) W3 (g) % TSS
PCWB 51.82 56.62 51.91 2.03
CCWB 51.73 56.82 51.85 2.35
WFWB 51.78 56.23 51.88 2.24
SSWB 51.75 56.20 51.85 2.25

Total suspended solids and total dissolved solids constitute total solids. Total suspended
solids are not dissolved in solvent whereas total dissolved solids are dissolved in solvent.
The percentage of Total suspended solids for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are
2.03, 2.35, 2.24 and 2.25 respectively, the high percentage is CCWB. The percentage of
total dissolved solids for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 0.62, 0.48, 0.25 and
0.32 respectively. The high percentage is PCWB.

33
4.1.3 Total dissolved solids (TDS) results
Table 4.3 Total dissolved solids (TDS) results
Sample W1 (g) W2 (g) W3 (g) %TDS
PCWB 116.070 116.23 116.071 0.62
CCWB 123.85 125.94 123.86 0.48
WFWB 27.28 31.28 27.29 0.25
SSWB 29.91 33.03 29.92 0.32

4.1.4 Volatile suspended solids (VSS) results

Table 4.4 Volatile suspended solids (VSS) results
Sample W1 (g) W2 (g) W3 (g) %VSS
PCWB 13.81 18.96 13.87 1.16
CCWB 13.81 18.965 13.84 0.58
WFWB 13.81 19.10 13.86 0.95
SSWB 13.81 18.95 13.84 0.58

Volatile suspended solids provide a rough approximation of the amount of organic matter
present in the solid fraction of wastewater, activated sludge, and industrial wastes. It is a
part of total suspended solids. The percentage of volatile suspended solids for PCWB,
CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 1.16, 0.58, 0.95 and 0.583 respectively, the high
percentage is SSWB.

4.1.5 Ash results

Table 4.5 Ash results
Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
% Ash 4.50 5.15 4.74 4.74

Ash content is a measure of the total amount of minerals present within a substance. The
percentage of Ash for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 4.50, 5.15, 4.74 and 4.74
respectively. The high percentage is CCWB.

34
4.1.6 Chemical oxygen demand (COD) results
Table 4.6 Chemical oxygen demand (COD) results
Volume of Burette Reading Volume of
COD
Sample Sample (ml) 1.16 N FAS
(ppm)
(ml) Initial Final (ml)
PCWB 2.2 0 1 1 4218.18
CCWB 2.2 0 1.4 1.4 2530.90
WFWB 2.2 0 0.5 0.5 6327.27
SSWB 2.2 0 0.3 0.3 7170.90
Blank 2.2 0 2 2 -

Chemical oxygen demand measures the biodegradable and non-biodegradable in the

wastewater. Chemical oxygen demand in ppm for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB
are 4218.18, 2530.90, 6327.27 and 7170.90 respectively. The high sample contains
biodegradable and non-biodegradable substance is SSWB.

4.1.7 Dissolved oxygen (DO) and Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) results
Table 4.7 Dissolved oxygen (DO) and Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) results

Dissolved oxygen (mg/ml)

Sample BOD (ppm)
Initial value (D1) Final value (D2)
PCWB 9.25 7.68 1570
CCWB 9.33 7.37 1960
WFWB 9.3 7.78 1520
SSWB 8.87 6.5 2370

Biochemical oxygen demand measures the non-biodegradable in wastewater. The

biochemical oxygen demand in ppm for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 1570,
1960, 1520 and 2370 respectively. The high sample contains non-biodegradable
substance is i SSWB.

35
4.1.8 Total soluble sugars results
Table 4.8 Fehling's test results
Volume of
Concentration of
S. glucose Volume of Absorbance at
glucose solution
No. solution water (ml) 573 nm
(mg/ml)
(ml)
1. 0 5 0 1.353 0
2. 1 4 0.2 1.401 0.048
3. 2 3 0.4 1.465 0.112
4. 3 2 0.6 1.506 0.153
5. 4 1 0.8 1.571 0.218
6. 5 0 1.0 1.61 0.257
7. PCWB 0 - 1.394 0.041
8. CCWB 0 - 1.396 0.043
9. SSWB 0 - 1.395 0.042
10. WFWB 0 - 1.393 0.040

0.3

y = 0.2625x
0.25 R = 0.9962
Absorbance at 573 nm

0.2

0.15

0.1

0.05

0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1
Concentration of glucose (mg/mL)
Figure 4.1 Standard curve for glucose

36
The figure shows a linear relationship between concentration and absorbance. The R2
value is 0.9962, which shows that the data is almost linear, but not perfectly linear. Its
easy to measure the concentration of glucose from this calibration plot by analyzing the
absorbance result using spectrophotometry. The percentages of total soluble sugar for all
samples are equal to 0.16%.

Table 4.9 Total soluble sugars results

Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
% Total
0.16 0.16 0.16 0.16
soluble sugars

4.1.9 Total starch results

Table 4.10 Total starch results
Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
% Total starch 48.6 42.3 51.3 53.8

The percentages of total soluble starch for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 48.6,
42.3, 51.3 and 53.8. The high percentage of total soluble starch is SSWB

4.1.10 Lipid results

Table 4.11 Lipid results
Mass of Mass of
Mass of Mass of
empty watch glass
Sample sample residue % lipid
watch glass + residue
(g) (g)
(g) (g)
PCWB 0.5 48.40 48.45 0.05 10%
CCWB 0.5 43.53 43.57 0.04 8%
WFWB 0.5 48.40 48.42 0.02 4%
SSWB 0.5 43.53 43.56 0.03 6%

37
The percentages of lipids for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 10, 8, 4 and 6
respectively. The high percentage is PCWB.

4.1.11 Protein results

Table 4.12 Protein results
Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
% Protein 17.56% 15.44% 13.69% 13.69%

The percentages of protein for PCWB, CCWB, WFWB and SSWB are 17.56, 15.44,
13.69 and 13.69 respectively. The high % is PCWB

4.1.12 pH results

8
7
pH of wastewater

6
5
4
3
2
1
0
PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
Wastewater sample
Figure 4.2 pH results

The pH increases if the size of particles decreases in the wastewater. The highest pH
value is SSWB because the size of particle is very fine 0.5-1mm.

38
 4.1.13 Biogas yield
Table 4.13 Biogas yield
Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB
Biogas yield (ml biogas/
0.5 1.875 0.4 1.025
ml wastewater)

The biogas yield productions from different type of wheat bran wastewater using two
type of biodigester are showing in the table above. The biogas yield for PCWB, CCWB,
WFWB and SSWB are 0.5, 1.875, 0.4 and 1.025 respectively. The high yield is CCWB.

39
4.2 SUMMARY
Table 4.14 Summary

Sample PCWB CCWB WFWB SSWB

% Moisture 97.35 97.06 97.51 97.42

% TS 2.65 2.94 2.49 2.58

% TSS 2.03 2.35 2.24 2.25

% TDS 0.62 0.48 0.25 0.32

% VSS 1.16 0.58 0.95 0.58

% Ash 4.50 5.15 4.74 4.74

COD (ppm) 4218.18 2530.90 6327.27 7170.0

BOD (ppm) 1570 1960 1520 2370

% Sugar 0.16 0.16 0.16 0.16

% Starch 48.6 42.3 51.3 53.8

% Lipid 10 8 4 6

% Protein 17.56 15.44 13.69 13.69

pH 5.40 5.21 5.93 6.9

Biogas yield
(mL biogas/mL 0.5 1.875 0.4 1.025
wastewater)
BOD/COD
0.372 0.774 0.240 0.330
ratio

VSS/TSS ratio 0.57 0.24 0.42 0.25

C/N ratio 18.94 21.95 24.16 24.16

40
4.2.1 Discussion:
Four samples of wheat were used to have knowledge of which one produces more
gas.
The values of C/N ratio, BOD/COD ratio and VSS/TSS ratio respectively were 18.94,
0.372, and 0.57 for PCWB.
For CCWB, the values of C/N ratio, BOD/COD ratio and VSS/TSS ratio respectively
were 21.95, 0.774, and 0.24.
The values of C/N ratio, BOD/COD ratio and VSS/TSS ratio respectively were 24.16,
0.240, and 0.42 for WFWB.
For SSWB, the values of C/N ratio, BOD/COD ratio and VSS/TSS ratio respectively
were 24.16, 0.330, and 0.25.
The results of TS, VSS, protein, lipids, starch and ash respectively were obtained as
2.56%, 1.16%, 17.56%, 10%, 48.6%, 4.59% for PCWB.
For CCWB, The results of TS, VSS, protein, lipids, starch and ash respectively were
obtained as 2.95%, 0.58%, 15.44%, 8%, 42.3%, and 5.15%.
The results of TS, VSS, protein, lipids, starch and ash respectively were obtained as
2.49%, 0.95%, 13.69%, 4%, 51.3%, and 4.74% for WFWB.
For SSWB, The results of TS, VSS, protein, lipids, starch and ash respectively were
obtained as 2.58%, 0.58%, 13.69%, 6%, 53.8%, and 4.74%

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 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Conclusion

5.2 Recommendations

42
5.1 CONCLUSION

The experiments related to the factors such as carbon to nitrogen (C/N), biochemical
oxygen demand to chemical oxygen demand (BOD/COD) and volatile suspended
solids to total suspended solids (VSS/TSS) ratios and biogas yield.
Four samples of wheat (purse coarse wheat bran (PCWB), crude coarse wheat bran
(CCWB), specific size wheat bran (SSWB) and whole fine wheat bran (WFWB)) are
used to have knowledge of which is suitable to produce more biogas.
The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were 18.94,
0.372, 0.57 and 0.5 for PCWB.
The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were 21.95,
0.774, 0.24 and 1.875 for CCWB.
The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were 24.16,
0.240, 0.42 and 0.4 for WFWB.
The ratios of C/N, BOD/COD, VSS/TSS and biogas yield respectively were 24.16,
0.330, 0.25 and 1.025 respectively for SSWB.
Hence, CCWB and SSWB are suitable for biogas production on a large scale based
on biogas yield.

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5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS

To perform material balance around biodigester

To perform energy balance around biodigester
To identify suitable site for biogas plant
To sketch layout for biogas plant
To perform sizing of various units for biogas plant
To perform economic analysis for biogas plant

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