EUBCE 2026 - Lukas KNOLL - Quantification and Mitigation of Methane Emissions from Liquid Manure Storage

Quantification and Mitigation of Methane Emissions from Liquid Manure Storage

Short Introductive summary

Untreated liquid manure is a major source of methane emissions, often exceeding those from digestate after anaerobic digestion. However, biogas systems remain economically unfeasible for many small-sized farms. The MethaMin project explores an alternative mitigation approach that captures and oxidizes methane directly from manure storage. A field study measured real methane emissions from a covered (but non-gas-tight) manure tank, revealing strong seasonal fluctuations—higher emissions in summer due to elevated slurry temperatures. Observed emission rates were significantly higher than theoretical estimates. To counter these emissions, a biological methane oxidation filter using methanotrophic microorganisms will be developed and tested on-site. This system aims to treat low methane concentrations that are unsuitable for energy recovery. Overall, MethaMin offers a practical, cost-effective strategy for reducing methane emissions from manure storage, especially for farms where biogas production is not economically viable.

L. Knoll, DBFZ-Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gemeinnützige, Leipzig, GERMANY
F. Schäfer, DBFZ-Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gemeinnützige, Leipzig, GERMANY
J. Liebetrau, Rytec, Baden-Baden, GERMANY
M. Winkler, DBFZ-Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gemeinnützige, Leipzig, GERMANY
N. Engler, DBFZ-Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gemeinnützige, Leipzig, GERMANY