Exploration of the co-structuring and stabilising role of flaxseed gum in whey protein isolate based cryo-hydrogels.

In the present work, the structuring and stabilising potential of flaxseed gum (FG) in whey protein isolate (WPI) cryo-hydrogels was investigated. The FG presence (0.1-1% wt.

Biogas residues in the battle for terrestrial carbon sequestration: A comparative decomposition study in the grassland soils of the Greater Region.

The recycling of biogas residues resulting from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste on agricultural land is among the means to reduce chemical fertilizer use and combat climate change. This in sacco decomposition study investigates (1) the potential of the granulated biogas residue fraction to provide nutrients and enhance soil carbon sequestration when utilized as exogenous organic matter in grassland soils, and (2) the impact of different nitrogen fertilizers on the organic matter decomposition and nutrient release processes. The experiment was conducted in two permanent grasslands of the Greater Region over one management period using rooibos tea as a comparator material.

Assessment of energy crops alternative to maize for biogas production in the Greater Region.

The biomethane yield of various energy crops, selected among potential alternatives to maize in the Greater Region, was assessed. The biomass yield, the volatile solids (VS) content and the biochemical methane potential (BMP) were measured to calculate the biomethane yield per hectare of all plant species. For all species, the dry matter biomass yield and the VS content were the main factors that influence, respectively, the biomethane yield and the BMP.

Assessment of factors influencing the biomethane yield of maize silages.

A large set of maize silage samples was produced to assess the major traits influencing the biomethane production of this crop. The biomass yield, the volatile solids contents and the biochemical methane potential (BMP) were measured to calculate the biomethane yield per hectare (average=7266m(3)ha(-1)). The most influential factor controlling the biomethane yield was the cropping environment.