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The material that is used in anaerobic digestion is called feedstock. What goes into a digester determines what comes out, so careful choice of feedstocks is essential. Securing a reliable feedstock supply is fundamental to profitable AD and if feedstocks are to be bought from an third party securing long-term contract on acceptable terms is critical.
The feedstock doesn't have to be waste, any biodegradable plant or animal matter that is not woody is a suitable feedstock for a digester. However, anaerobic micro-organisms cannot break down lignin, the complex polymer that gives plants their strength, which means that wood products, paper and straw will slow the digester. Some examples of feedstock streams are:
- Slurry
- Domestic food waste
- Food processing waste
- Crops grown specifically for AD
- Silage
A list of biodegradable wastes that can be used in AD can be found in the new Quality Protocol for anaerobic digestate.
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