Ivanov T.Lalov I.2024-07-162024-07-162024-07-162024-07-162023-01-011314-79781314-7471SCOPUS_ID:85152121671https://rlib.uctm.edu/handle/123456789/1416Biomass from microalgae is a promising feedstock for energy production through anaerobic digestion. The aim of this study was to determine the biochemical methane potential of Spirulina biomass. Тhe investigated biomass is characterized by a high protein content and a low carbon/nitrogen ratio. In order to improve the biodegradability of the biomass, the fresh biomass was pre-treated by thermolysis. Although a yield of 0.295 L CH4 g-1 VSS was obtained in the initial experiments, subsequent batch processes showed a drop in yield, slowing until the complete cessation of the methanation process. The main reason for the problems is the inhibition from high concentration of ammonium ions. After regeneration of the methanogenic consortium with vinasse substrate, an increase in yield to 0.445 L CH4 g-1 VSS was observed. The use of pretreated biomass resulted in an unexpected yield reduction effect. Application of vinasse as a co-substrate for methanation showed an increase in yield to 0.529 L CH4 g-1 VSS and stabilization of the processenArticle