6–10 Jul 2026
University of the Western Cape
Africa/Johannesburg timezone
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Enhancing Biogas Yield from Cow Dung: A Comparative Study of Varying Fe₂O₃ Nanoparticle Concentrations

9 Jul 2026, 15:00
20m
Lecture Hall DL3 (University of the Western Cape)

Lecture Hall DL3

University of the Western Cape

Poster Presentation Track F - Applied Physics Applied Physics

Speaker

Takalani Nethavhanani (University of Venda)

Description

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a key technology for renewable energy generation and waste management; however, its efficiency is often constrained by slow reaction kinetics and suboptimal microbial efficiency. Recent studies indicate that adding iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles to biodigesters enhances methane production and the anaerobic digestion (AD) process. This ongoing study is investigating the effect of Fe₂O₃ on methane production during the anaerobic digestion of cow dung. Batch digesters with cow dung supplemented with iron oxide at concentrations of 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/L are being conducted under controlled mesophilic (37 ± 0.5℃) and thermophilic (55 ± 0.5℃) conditions over a 40-day retention period. Biogas volume and methane composition are monitored to evaluate the effects of Fe₂O₃ concentration and temperature. To ensure robust statistical analysis, the distribution of experimental data will be evaluated using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov normality test prior to further inferential analysis. This study aims to determine the optimal Fe₂O₃ nanoparticle concentration and compare performance under different thermal conditions. Findings will enhance understanding of nanomaterial-assisted anaerobic processes and support the development of efficient, sustainable biogas systems.

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Author

Takalani Nethavhanani (University of Venda)

Co-authors

Dr Vhutshilo Nekhubvi (University of Venda) Dr Lutendo Mathomu (University of Venda) Prof. Eric Maluta (University of Venda)

Presentation materials