Potential of Gracilaria sp. as single-or co-digestion feedstock for biogas production

High consumption of fossil fuels in Indonesia needs to be reduced by using renewable energy, such as from biomass. In Indonesia, as one of the largest maritime countries, macroalgae (i.e. seaweed) are also considered as potential renewable biomass feedstocks for substituting any land biomass. This study aimed to investigate biodegradability and biogas potential of macroalgae (Gracilaria sp.) as single-or co-digestion feedstock using anaerobic digestion technology. The biochemical methane potential (BMP) test was carried out for 28 days at temperature of 37 °C to investigate the specific methane potential. All samples were in triplicate. Combinations of Gracilaria sp. with various biomass feedstocks (i.e. food waste, tofu dregs) were also tested. The findings indicated a potential valorisation of macroalgae for biogas production either as single or co-digestion feedstock, as well as a potential for electricity generation. However, further optimisation process is required for better and higher degradation process.