Regular Article

Development and performance analysis of a biogas reactor using livestock manure

¹ University of Jeddah, College of Science, Department of Physics, Al-Faisaliyah, Jeddah 23445, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
² Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Prince Majid St, Jeddah 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

^* Corresponding author: bushra5272@hotmail.com

Received: 19 October 2024
Accepted: 30 June 2025

Abstract

Anaerobic biotechnology is a viable solution for recovering biomethane from organic waste, thereby mitigating GreenHouse Gas (GHG) emissions. This study investigated the development and performance of an anaerobic underground Fixed-Dome Reactor (GFDR) designed to optimise methane production from livestock manure, offering a sustainable approach to waste management and renewable energy generation. The reactor was evaluated using manure from horses, cows, camels, and sheep, and key operational parameters (total solids, volatile solids, total nitrogen, and pH) were monitored throughout the process. The biogas produced by the GFDR contained 56.40% methane and 34.80% carbon dioxide, demonstrating its efficiency in methane recovery. Additionally, the nutrient-rich digestate was assessed for its potential use as a biofertiliser, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. This study provides a detailed characterisation of the feedstock and reactor performance, highlighting the ability of the system to reduce GHG emissions and promote sustainable waste-to-energy technologies. A preliminary economic feasibility analysis estimates that constructing a 22 m³ GFDR would be financially viable. This study underscores the cost-effectiveness of biomass energy recovery, although further advancements in sensor technologies and biogas production processes are necessary to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.