Biogas produced through anaerobic digestion of lignocellulosic materials, is largely recognized as one of the only carbon negative fuel sources. The study consisted of two parts; 1) codigestion of AFEXTM-pretreated corn stover and cow manure and 2) degradation of plant cell wall components (different compounds) in agricultural biogas plants. It was concluded from the first part of the study that AFEXTM-pretreated corn stover promotes conversion of methane production in anaerobic digestion but has a smaller impact on consumption of the plant cell wall components. The corresponding biogas production (213 L/kg VS loading) of the AFEX treated co-digestion was 22% higher than that (175 L/kg VS loading) of the untreated co-digestion. The second part of the study led to the conclusion that biogas is produced mainly from nonstructural carbohydrates in the influent, and the plant cell wall makes a smaller contribution to biogas generation. Was observed greater correlations between the biogas productivity and the reduction of two organic components (TOC=17.8% & Protein=18.1%). On the other hand, lower correlations were detected between the consumptions of the plant cell was components (Lignin=12.5%, Cellulose=3.7% & Xylan=0%) and the biogas productivity.
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