Hydrolysis dynamics for batch anaerobic digestion of elephant grass

Abstract

Elephant grass might be a potential source of fine chemical precursors and bioenergy. In the present study, we investigated the dynamics of hydrolysis of elephant grass. Three models were used to fit the hydrolysis rate constants—flat, spherical, and cylindrical models. The hydrolysis rate constants obtained using the spherical model presented the best fit between the experimental and theoretical values. Furthermore, we determined the secondary reinforcement points and interventions that can be introduced to speed up the hydrolysis process. Our findings will provide information for studies on the hydrolysis of elephant grass and promote its application in the biogas industry as an alternative biofuel.