Uso de digestato como biofertilizante: abordagem teórica

Abstract

One of the main challenges faced by society today is the proper management of waste generated in production processes, which are mostly composed of organic matter, a major source of environmental pollution. Biomass obtained from vegetable or animal organic matter can be used to generate biogas, used to generate electricity; and digestate, a residue of anaerobic digestion, which has a high content of nutrients and can be used as a biofertilizer. This research aimed to discuss the use of this residue as a biofertilizer. After an analysis of the most recent studies on the subject, it is concluded that the recycling of digestate as a biofertilizer is its most sustainable use, with emphasis on its capacity to increase the carbon and phosphorus content of the soil. Liquid digestate proved to be more efficient applied to vegetables, and its solid form stood out as a soil improver. However, its composition is strongly dependent on several process factors, requiring a chemical characterization prior to its application to the soil. More studies are needed to confirm the digestate effect and develop a large experimental database.