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Teacher’s manual

I Theory............................................................................................................................................. 6

1. Vertical farming ............................................................................................................................... 6

2. Photosynthesis/ Calvin- Cycle ......................................................................................................... 8
3. Hydroculture ................................................................................................................................. 12
4. Substrates..................................................................................................................................... 13
5. Nutrition ........................................................................................................................................ 14
6. Artificial Lightning .......................................................................................................................... 15
7. Composting................................................................................................................................... 18
8. Production of bio methane ............................................................................................................ 21
9. Generation of bio hydrogen........................................................................................................... 22
II. General information about the experimental system ............................................................. 26

III. Student’s experiments ............................................................................................................. 27

1. Germination of plant seeds ........................................................................................................... 27

2. Plant growth in hydroponic culture ................................................................................................ 27
3. Nutrient and water consumption.................................................................................................... 27
4. Aerobic decomposition .................................................................................................................. 27
5 Anaerobic decomposition to hydrogen ........................................................................................... 27
6. Anaerobic decomposition to methane ........................................................................................... 27

5
L3-03-270_28.06.2016
I Theory

It is estimated that in 2050 over 9 billion people will live on this planet. Next to energy production, the
constant provision of the human population with food will be one of the biggest issues. The demand for
renewable resources only grows, since the devastation through the climate change increases dramatically.
[1]

As per FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) studies the occurrence of extreme
weather phenomena like extreme heat, flooding and cyclones has doubled in the years 1990 till 2016. In
addition the imbalance in food distribution on earth is increasing.
In the year 2017 821 million people in the world were counted as undernourished, meaning 10,9 % of the
world population. On the other side the percentage of overweight/obese people increased from 11,7 %
(2012) to 13,2 % (2016). Following these statistics in 2017 more than 672 million people were categorized as
obese. [2]

To fight these unbalance and to guarantee the fundamental right of every human on food, humanity has to
find new ways of efficient food production. An interesting concept to improve the industrial food production is
the so-called “vertical farming”. The fundamental idea behind the concept is the usage of empty inner city
structures: meaning empty storage depots, warehouses or skyscrapers. The objective is to grow and harvest
as much of the individual plant as possible, while using an optimum of resources, energy and water and to
minimize transportation distances.

The first test on the concept of vertical farming was 2001 in Manhattan New York City by the Columbia
University. Ever since the idea was developed further, so now we have different technical and philosophical
approaches. [3]

Picture 1: Industrial cultivation of lettuce

6
The “urban farming” describes the sustainable agriculture in cities, the modification and utilization of empty
depots or warehouses in the city or near the city. They are used as greenhouses or to build up new industrial
hydroculture’s. [4]

Urban gardening characterizes the (mostly) small scaling usage of city areas or in the close suburban areas
of cities. Effective management of the gardening culture, the environmentally friendly production and
sensible consumption of the cultivated products were set in the first place. [5]

In countries and cities with a particularly small land area and high population density which also strongly rely
on the import of food, the concept of “vertical farming” is constantly being developed.
In Japan “plant factory with artificial light” or PFAL are build. These are plant production facilities with a
thermally insulated and nearly airtight warehouse-like structure. Different kinds of plant grow in vertical
farming modules, so the used area is very small for a high productivity of food. [6]

7
Photosynthesis is the major metabolic process on earth and nearly all vegetation and animal lives depend on
it. The fraction of the sunlight which is reaching our planet through the atmosphere is used by chlorophyll-
containing plants (and bacteria). Carbon dioxide and water are utilized to form glucose and oxygen as a
minor product. [7]

Picture 2: Overview of photosynthesis

All plants on Earth together are using as much carbon dioxide for their anabolism, as the corresponding
catabolism generates. This is called the carbon cycle. The usage of oil and coal as energy source lead to
additional exposure of CO2 into the atmosphere which plants could not compensate. As a result humanity is
facing a huge increase in environmental disasters with incalculable consequences for plants and animals
and in the end men themselves.

8
In plants photosynthesis takes place in organelles called chloroplasts (see picture 3). They are located in the
leaf of a green plant.

Picture 3: Composition of a chloroplast

There are two main phases of photosynthesis:

The light-dependent reaction takes places in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplast. It is basically a
redox reaction, catalyzed by proteins and driven by the absorbed light energy.

Picture 4 shows the complex procedure of the light-dependent reactions:

9
Picture 4: Light dependent reaction in the thylakoid membrane

The process of photosynthesis starts with light absorption by photosystem II (PSII). The absorbed energy is
collected and transferred in form of delocalized electrons to the reactive center of the chlorophyll molecule.
The occurring electron gap is later closed by other electrons, which are generated by the chlorophyll via the
decomposition of water. Two molecules of water providing four electrons (e-), the two oxygen atoms
recombine to one oxygen molecule (O2) and in the end there are four protons (H+) left. [8]

In general the sunlight is inflicting energy into the photo reactive center of the chlorophyll molecules, which
causes an electron transformation onto an electron acceptor (plastoquinone, PQ). The acceptor gets
reduced, the chlorophyll oxidized und then again reduced by the electrons of the water through the PS II.
The electrons getting migrated by a number of acceptor molecules and redox systems. This is called the
electron transport chain. [7,8]
One of the redox systems is the cytochrome b6/f complex, it’s reaching through the whole Thylakoid
membrane into the Stroma. This system is basically a transfer system for protons into the inner of the
thylakoid and electrons to the next acceptor molecule (plastocyanin, PC). [8]

Plastocyanin carries the electrons to the next reaction center, the photosystem I (PSI). This can only absorb
electrons if there is an electron gab by light absorption (similar to PSII). The activated reaction center
transfers the electrons over some more iron- sulfur centers to the ferredoxin (FD). At the end of the electron
transport chain the enzyme ferredoxindoxin-NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR) uses two electrons and one
proton to convert NADP+ to NADPH.

Inside of the thylakoid protons are set free by the photolysis of the water and on the outside these protons
are used to produce NADPH+H+. Compensation of the proton concentration is achieved by tunnel proteins
which are connected to the ATP synthase enzyme. The concentration gradient of the moving protons is used
to build up Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from Adenosine diphosphate (ADP). [7,8,9]

10
The second phases of photosynthesis are the light-independent (or “dark”) reactions. Named after the
American chemist Melvin Calvin – the Calvin cycle takes places in the stroma of the chloroplast.

Picture 5: Calvin cycle

The Calvin-Cycle is subdivided into three segments. First is the carbon fixation where carbon dioxide is
bound to an acceptor molecule (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate) and which then is split by the enzyme RuBP-
carboxylase to the intermediate product 3- phoshpoglycerinacid (3PGA).
In the next step we need the product of the light-dependent reactions. The 3PGA is reduced by ATP and
NADPH+H+ to 3- phosphoglycerinaldehyde. This carbohydrate with three carbon atoms can be reformed in
following reactions to glucose. The third step is the regeneration of the ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate. The
unused carbohydrates of the second step rebuild the RuBP. The energy needed for this is coming from ATP.
The enzyme catalyzing the process is called phosphoribulokinase. [7]

11
For efficient agriculture in urban and suburban areas the principles of hydroculture’s are very important.
Hydroculture, water culture, hydroponics are all terms for different methods of growing ornamental and
agricultural plants by using nutrition solutions instead of conventional irrigation. The solutions are
dispensable in controlled metered amounts and the whole process of growing can be fully automated. [10]

The plants do not grow in normal earth. Instead they grow up in inorganic substrates or completely without it.
In that case plant roots are free and partially or completely doused into the nutrition solution. This is so-called
hydroponics. If any substrate is used to transmit the nutrition to the roots, it is called hydro culture. [11]

There are many ways of nutrition control in hydro culture systems:

The Deep Water Culture (DWC) provides direct and constant feed with water and all the minerals needed. It
has to be secured that the plant roots are permanent in water and are constantly supplied with oxygen to
prevent them from asphyxiation. [12]

The Ebb and Flow technique uses an inorganic substrate (expanded clay or coconut fibre) to root the plants
in pots. The pots are arranged in a way that the roots are hanging freely. The nutrition solution is kept in a
reservoir tank and pumped alternately onto the roots. This way the plants getting supplied with minerals,
without the risk of suffocating from a lack of oxygen. In batch process, however, the concentration of
nutrients in the storage container varies, which can be negative for the plant growth. [13]

In the Nutrient Film Technique (NTF) a streamlet of water is used to carry the important minerals directly to
the roots. They are not fully dipped into water, so the roots still getting oxygen. The nutrient solution is
constantly cycled. This method is not using any substrates. [14]

The Drip System configuration can be recirculating/recovery and non-recirculating drip systems. In any case
the plants are again rooted in an inorganic substrate. The storage tank with the nutrition solution is
constantly aerated and the nutrient is pumped onto every single root. That way each plant gets the full
nutrition. In the continuous process the left over nutrient solution gets returned to the storage container. [15]

Aeroponic is a method of agriculture without a liquid nutrient solution. In hermetic sealed aeroponic
chambers the nutrients, oxygen, CO2, and the water are nebulized onto the plants. In the closed systems the
monitoring and controlling of individual parameters very simple compared to traditional agriculture. The
industrial technique of aeroponics was developed only 30 years ago and is still kind of a new technology.
[16]

12
As substrate in hydroculture we use inorganic material instead of soil to ground the cultivated plants. The
used substratum has to have some key abilities: [17]

 It has to be structurally stable: the outer and inner structure should not alter during the usage
 The substrate should not rot or decay, the resulting products could interfere with the roots. That’s why
only inorganic material is used.
 It should not contain aggressive substances which could dissolve and alter the concentration of the
nutrition solution
 It should support the capillary action, so the water and oxygen reach the roots
 The particle size should match the growing rate of the plant roots
 The net weight should also match the growth of the plant, to ensure secure mounting of the plants

Examples of substratum are:

 Expended clay
 Extrusive rocks
 Quartz gravel
 Pumice stone

Picture 6: Expanded clay

13
Mineral nutrition is essential for plant growth. Minerals and other nutrients are used in photosynthesis and in
biomass buildup reaction subsequent to photosynthesis.

Nitrogen is very important for the amino acid and protein production of plants (and animals).
For amino acid synthesis the nitrate first is reduced to nitrite. The responsible enzyme is called nitrate
reductase.
Higher plants absorb the Nitrogen in form of nitrate ions (NO3-) and in form of ammonia (NH3) or ammonium
ions (NH4+). The reduction takes place in the roots of the plants and by dark in the leaf. The nitrogen
processing depends only indirectly from photosynthesis and the reactions are using the energy out of the
assimilation of carbohydrates.
Next step is the transfer of ammoniac onto glutamate and the formation of glutamine. The glutamine-
glutamate-cycle with its intermediate α-ketoglutarate is the chemical connection to the citric acid cycle of the
mitochondrion. [9]

Sulfur is absorbed as sulfate anion (SO4-). For the conversion of SO4- adenosine triphosphate (ATP) of the
light-dependent reaction of photosynthesis is needed. The enzyme ATP- sulfurylase catalyzes the activation
of sulfate transferring to form adenosine 5-phosphosulfate (APS), so the sulfur is bound for next reactions.
The photosynthetic assimilation of sulfur into the chloroplasts is activated by magnesium ions (Mg+) and an
alkalescent pH.
Next reaction step is transfer on a carrier protein via the enzyme APS sulfotransferase, again activated by
ATP. At the end of the whole sulfur metabolism stands the formation of the amino acids cysteine and
methionine. [9]

Potassium ions (K+) playing a very important role in transportation processes. The glucose formed in the
Calvin-Cycle is converted to saccharose. Saccharose is an important transportation compound for the
converted carbon hydrates, which have to get to certain cell organelles and split again into glucose and
fructose to form starch or amino acids. Potassium ions are part of the transportation system saccharose. Low
concentration of potassium stimulates the operation of the hydrogen transportation pumps, the water
absorption, the osmotic balance and in the end the transportation of saccharose. [8]

Phosphorus is a fundamental part of the ATP. During the light-dependent step of photosynthesis
adenosine diphosphate is converted to adenosine triphosphate. Inorganic phosphorus is an elemental
compound for the functioning of the whole photosynthesis cycle. Many other reaction steps following
photosynthesis (e.g. the conversion from glucose to saccharose or starch) need the energy provided by
ATP.

14
The whole process of photosynthesis has been only possible, because of the light energy reaching our
planet. This light is a result of reactions in the inner of our sun (spectral class G-type). In physics light can be
described as wave and particle (Wave-particle dualism). To understand the role of light during
photosynthesis we want to analyze light as an electromagnetic wave, with its characteristics: wavelength and
energy.

Picture 7: The electromagnetic spectrum

The emitted electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of 380 nm to 780 nm are interpreted as “visible light”
by the human eye (as shown in picture 7). For photosynthesis light with a wavelength of 430 nm to 700 nm is
needed. So the spectrum of visible light contains the spectrum of useable light of plants.

There are many different pigments in the leaf of plants. The one which is crucial for photosynthesis is called
Chlorophyll. For the following explanation we will differ between chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b.

From a chemical point of view chlorophyll is basically a chelate complex with a magnesium ion as a central
ion. The difference between chlorophyll a and b are different side chains. Chlorophyll is the reactive center of
photosystem I and II in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplast. Chlorophyll transfers the incoming light
energy via photochemical reactions by elevating electrons into excited stated. As u can see in picture 8 red
light converts the electrons into the first excited state. So the electron has now more energy than in the
ground state and can release this energy as heat, fluorescents light or to start a photochemical reaction.
Blue light has more energy and converts the electrons into the second excited state. This state is only stable
for a very short period of time and the electron slips back into the first excited state and emits the energy as
heat.

15
Picture 8: The excited state of chlorophyll [7]

It is non-significant to illuminate the plants only with red or blue light, the photosynthesis reactions can take
place in either case. However, through the combination the two mechanisms can be used.
The absorption of chlorophyll a and b is shown in picture 9:

Picture 9: Absorbance spectra of chlorophyll a and b

The absorption bands show that blue and red light are absorbed and the rest of the light between 500 nm
and 600 nm is reflected. Thus, the chlorophyll-containing leaves are occurring green for the human eye.

16
In vertical farming LED (light emitting diodes) lights are used to optimize the energy efficiency. Due to the
technique of LED it is possible to generate light with a certain wavelength and use less energy than working
with lightbulbs. (Lightbulbs generate a wide spectrum of light and emit much of the energy used as heat.)
The combination of red and blue light (like in picture 10) has the advantage of using both
mechanisms of stimulation, as a result the lights irradiating the plants seeming violet.
White light is still partly used to judge the status of the leaf and the bloom.

Picture 10: artificial light for energy-efficient hydroponics

17
Composting (e.G.: Picture 11) is part of the aerobic treatment of useable organic and biogenic waste or
rather remains.
Compost (lat.: compositum) is specified as a product of rotting waste of animals and plants [18]
Rotting is the degradation of organic material via bacteria and fungi.

Picture 11: Typical private compost

Through the root plants take the needed nutrition from the surroundings and convert them into much more
complex compound. Organisms not able to perform photosynthesis need these compounds and the
containing energy for their own metabolism. The organic rests of animals and plants is used as feed material
in composting and can be classified into four main groups: [19]

1. Carbo hydrates
2. Fats, oil
3. Protein
4. Lignin

Microbial metabolism during composting is part of the global cycle of materials. This means the material
listed up above represent the raw material for the metabolism of the microorganism in the rotting. The level
of decomposition increase from lignin, to cellulose, fat, protein to starch and glucose.

The organic and biogenic remains can be decomposed via three main reaction ways:
glucose and other carbon hydrates get catabolized (completely) to CO2 and water. Proteins get cracked
down into their amino acids and then to CO2 and primary amines while setting ammonia free.

18
Fats and wax are converted by beta-oxidation and the conversion of glycerine via catabolism of
glucose. [19]
For composting six groups of microorganism are very important: bacteria, yeast, actinomyces, algae, fungi
and protozoa. [20]
In addition to the availability of microorganism the biochemical process and reactions depend on some key
factors and can be controlled by them to a certain point.
One of these key factors is the temperature during the rotting. The progression of catabolism can be
characterized via four phases shown in picture 12:

Picture 12: Temperature variation during the composting and phases of microbial activity

During the initial phase primarily mesophilic bacteria develope whilst the temperature of the rotting is 10°C to
45°C. This phase lasts for twelve to 24 hours. The increasing temperature accelerates the reproduction of
the mesophilic bacteria, subsequently they die or transmute into spore. The metabolism process increases
the temperature even more and supports the evolving of thermophilic bacteria in a temperature range from
25°C to 80°C.

The optimum temperature during the thermophilic phase is 50°C to 55°C. The bacteria keep multiplicating,
as a result the temperature inside the compost can reach up to 80°C. At such high temperatures, the
thermophilic bacteria cannot survive anymore (there are some exceptions) and will die slowly. The process
of decomposition disrupts and the temperature lowers. A side effect of the very high temperature above 80°C
is the rapid decimation of pathogenic organisms and the corresponding disinfection of the rotting.

19
After most of the thermophilic bacteria died, because of the high temperature and the easy to catabolize
compounds were assimilated, the temperature falls below 45°C. This is where the cooling phase starts.
The population of microorganism converts again to mesophilic organisms (but different compared to the
initial phase). These are able to use higher molecular compounds. The end of the phase of conversion is
reached after 12 to 16 week of rotting.

By the time the main parts of the usable substances were converted the maturation phase starts. The other
not yet used compounds and products of the metabolism are called humic matter. Further characterization of
humins is not easy. The chemical composition verifies depending on the raw material, the population of
microorganisms and the time of the year. In general humins are high molecular carbon sources which can
only be used by fungi in a cometabolic way, over a long period of time. [19, 21]

In addition to temperature, the microbial activity also depends on the pH. A neutral pH is in general preferred
by bacteria, because it reflects the natural conditions of the bacteria cells. Experiments show that a bit of an
alkaline pH can support the rotting. Most of the microorganisms tolerate a pH between 5 and 9. In addition,
the pH is of cause depending on the raw material for composting. [20]

Water is essential for rotting, because bacteria can only absorb dissolved nutrients by a semipermeable
membrane. Low water content under 25 to 30 % slows down all metabolism, under 10% the whole rotting
process stops. The optimum of humidity between 45 and 65 % is also depending on the structure of the
compost. [20]

Linked closely to water content are oxygen content and the pore volume. Since composting is an aerobe
process technology a good ventilation is fundamental and oxygen is part of many reactions in metabolism
and catabolism of bacteria and fungi.
High water content can lead to clogging the pores and so to inefficient ventilation. Big pores are very good to
drain off excessive water (after rain). The ventilation also prevents a heat buildup and the occurring CO2
during catabolism can be lead away. Components with big absorptive capacity and high structural stability
(like bark or straw) leading to a constant ventilation with contemporaneous high water content. [19]

The microorganisms need some kind of nutrition to maintain their vital functions and reproduction. The ratio
of carbon to nitrogen (C/N ratio) is crucial for the rotting. The supply of other nutrients (like P, K, S, Ca, Mg,
etc.) can normally be seen as is secured. Experiments have shown that a C/N ratio of the raw material of
20:1 to 35:1 is preferable. A ratio too high lead to a slowing down of the rotting process and a too low C/N
ratio reduces the quality of the compost products. [22]

20
The conversion of the biomass (produced through photosynthesis) to methane and hydrogen is performed
by mesophilic and thermophilic bacteria all over the world. This conversion is called fermentation. The used
bacteria (e.g.: Methanobacterium, Methanococcusund, Methanosarcina [23]) transform the provided biomass
to keep their life-sustaining processes running. The gaseous emerging products are named bio-gas. If the
conversion occurs under absents of air, the whole process is called anaerobic fermentation.

Bio gas has variable properties caused by the different manufacturing process. General differentiation is
between: [24]

Gas from purification plants (digester gas) by anaerobic stabilization of sewage sludge of urban
wastewater treatment

Gas from industrial purification plants by anaerobic facilitating of organic highly concentrated wastewater

Gas from agricultural remains by anaerobic fermentation of animal excrement

Gas from waste utilization by stabilization of organic community refuses (organic waste)

Landfill gas describes a mix of different gases created by microorganisms and/or outgassing in landfills.

During the process of fermentation the biomass is mainly converted to methane, CO2, water, H2S and
ammonia.
A typical composition of biogas is shown in the following table [25]:

Components Composition Average

Methane in vol% 45 to 70 60
Carbon dioxide in vol% 25 to 55 35
Nitrogen in vol% 0,01 to 5 1
Oxygen in vol% 0,01 to 2 0,3
Hydrogen sulfide in vol% 0,1 to 3 0,05
Thiol in ppm 0,1 to 30 0,1
Ammonia in ppm 0,1 to 2,5 0,7
BTX in ppm 0,1 to 5 0,1
Siloxane in ppm 0,1 to 5 0,1
Water in vol% 2 to 4 3,1

For subsequent processing at first the hydrogen sulfide has to be separated because it is very corrosive and
toxic. Separation happens via gas adsorption and absorption technology. The following processing steps
increase the methane level even further through compression and gas scrubbing. In the end the methane
can be directly injected into the urban gas distribution system and in combined heat and power plants.

21
Produce methane via anaerobic fermentation and then converted it by a process called steam reforming (see
picture 13) is a key technology to produce bio hydrogen.

Picture 13: Process flowsheet of steam reforming

The direct production of hydrogen via anaerobic fermentation is also possible. Heterotrophic and
photoheterotrophic bacteria are used for this purpose. Those bacteria occur everywhere in nature, e.g.:
Clostridium, Thermoanaerobacter, Thermotoga. They can be incubated as pure culture or gained as mixed
culture out of sewage sludge.
Positive using pure culture is that only hydrogen and CO2 are produced. Mixed cultures also produce
methane which has to be separated. Most of the bacteria able to produce hydrogen are thermophilic and can
withstand high temperature above 100°C for several hours. This ability makes it easy to isolate them from
mesophilic (methane producing) bacteria. As carbon source for anaerobic fermentation no organic waste is
used, because this would lead to too many side reactions. Substrates with a high percentage of glucose or
starch, like corn or potatoes, are used instead to support the hydrogen production.

22
The four steps of fermentation are [26]:
Hydrolysis – reactants (carbon hydrates, proteins) getting cracked into simple organic compounds
Acidogenesis – the products of hydrolysis getting catabolized even further so short fatty acids, organic acids,
alcohol, aldehydes, ammonia and H2 and CO2
Acetogenesis – long carbon chains, alcohol and aldehydes getting converted into acetic acid, hydrogen and
carbon dioxide
Methanogenesis – during the last phase the acetic acids getting converted into methane. For the production
of bio hydrogen this step is prejudicial and needs to be separated.

23
List of references
[1] Bundesministerium für Ernährung und Landwirtschaft, Broschüre Welternährung verstehen - Fakten und
Hintergründe, August 1018
[2] FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2018. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2018.
Building climate resilience for food security and nutrition. Rome, FAO
[3] Peter Platt, Vertical Farming: An Interview with Dickson Despommier, Gastronomica , Vol. 7, No. 3 (Summer
2007), pp. 80-87, University of California Press,
[4] Geert Rozinga, Der Eroberungszug der vertikalen Landwirtschaft - VPRO DOK 2017,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryCkqWI4xtQ, abgerufen am 13.05.2019
[5] Christian Ulrichs: Urban Horticulture – eine junge Wissenschaft: VDL-Journal, Magazin für Agrar, Ernährung,
Umwelt. 2006, 3 (56): S. 12–13.
[6] Kozai Toyoki, Niu Genhua; Takagaki Michiko, Plant factory : an indoor vertical farming system for efficient
quality food production, Amsterdam: Boston: Heidelberg: London: New York: Elsevier AP, 2016
[7] Wolfgang Miram, Karl-Heinz Scharf, Biologie heute SII, Schroedel Verlag GmbH, Hannover
[8] Y.P. Abrol, P. Mohanty, Govindjee, Photosythesis: Photoreaction to Plant Productivity, Kluwer Academic
Publishers, 1993
[9] D.W.Lawlor, Photosynthese: Stoffwechsel- Kontrolle- Physiologie, Georg Thieme Verlag Stuffgart, New York,
1990
[10] Brockhaus Enzyklopädie, S 334, 18 Aufl, Bd. 10, FA Brockhaus GmbH, 1989
[11] https://indoorgarten.com/hydrokultur-leitfaden/, abgerufen am 13.05.2019
[12] M.F. Saaid, N.A.M. Yahya, M.Z.H. Noor, M.S.A. Megat Ali, A Development of an Automatic Microcontroller
System for Deep Water Culture, 2013 IEEE 9th International Colloquium on Signal Processing and its
Applications, 8 - 10 Mac. 2013, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
[13] Epic Gardening, How to Set Up an Ebb and Flow DIY Hydroponics System (Flood and Drain) ,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXJuNlpkNDU, abgerufen am 13.05.2019
[14] Walid Nosir, EFFICIENCY OF USING COMMERCIAL FERTILIZERS FOR GLADIOLUS GROWTH IN
NUTRIENT FILM TECHNIQUE, Journal of Plant Nutrition, 34:7, 963-969, 2011
[15] Epic Gardening , https://www.epicgardening.com/hydroponic-systems/, abgerufen am 13.05.2019
[16] Irman Idris, Muhammad Ikhsan Sani, Monitoring and Control of Aeroponic Growing System for Potato
Production, IEEE Conference on Control, Systems and Industrial Informatics (ICCSII) Bandung, Indonesia,
September 23-26, 2012
[17] Jochen Euler, https://www.dghk.net/index.php?artikel=606, abgerufen am 13.05.2019
[18] Brockhaus Enzyklopädie, S 236, 18 Aufl, Bd. 12, FA Brockhaus GmbH, 1989
[19] Werner Bidlingmaier, Biologische Abfallverwertung, Eugen Ulmer GmbH & Co., Stuttgart, 2000
[20] Karl Joachim Thomè-Kozmiensky, Biologische Abfallbehandlung, EF- Verlag für Energie und Umwelttechnik,
Berlin, 1995
[21] Joachim Brummack, Lehrveranstaltung „Umweltschutz“, TU Dresden, Fakultät Maschinenwesen
Institut für Verfahrenstechnik und Umwelttechnik, 2010
[22] Karl Joachim Thomè-Kozmiensky Klaus Fricke, Thomas Turk, Hardy Vogtmann, Grundlagen der
Kompostierung, EF- Verlag für Energie und Umwelttechnik, Berlin, 1990
[23] Rechtenbach, Dorothea, Fermentative Erzeugung von Biowasserstoff aus biogenen Roh- und Reststoffen,
Stuttgart: Verlag Abfall aktuell, 2009, Hamburger Berichte; Bd. 34
[24] Artur Mennerich, Biogas, Verwertung und Aufbereitung, Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Abwassertechnik,
Bonn, 1997
[25] Onkar Dixir, Upgrading Biogas to Biomethan Using Absorption, Dissertation, Technische Universität Dresden,
Fakultät Maschinenwesen, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Mollekopf, 2015
[26] Dorothea Rechtenbach, Fermentative Erzeugung von Biowasserstoff aus biogenen Roh- und Reststoffen,
Dissertation, Hamburger Berichte, Bd. 34, Prof. Dr.-Ing. R. Stegmann, Verlag Abfall aktuell, 2009

24
Picture Credits

Picture 1 Industrial cultivation of lettuce Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 2 Overview photosynthesis Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 3 Composition of a chloroplast Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 4 Light dependend reaction in the Licensing via fotolia.com

thylaciod membran

Picture 5 Calvin cycle Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 6 Expended clay Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 7 The electromagnetic spectrum Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 8 The excited state of chlorophyll Licensing via fotolia.com

Picture 9 Absorbancs spectra of chlorophyll S. 16: aegon, Wikimedia Commons,

a and b lizenziert unter CreativeCommons-Lizenz by-sa-3.0-de,
URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-
sa/3.0/de/legalcode

Picture 10 Artificial light for energy efficient Licensing via fotolia.com

hydroponics

Picture 11 Typical private compost Provided by Dr. R. Timmreck

Picture 12 Temperature variation during the Dr. Joachim Brummack, Lehrveranstaltung

composting and phases of „Umweltschutz“, TU Dresden, Fakultät
microbial activity Maschinenwesen

Institut für Verfahrenstechnik und Umwelttechnik, 2010

Picture 13 Process flowsheet of steam S.23: Sven ; CC lizenz 4.0

reforming https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datei:Dampfreformierung.jpg
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

CC lizenz 4.0

25
II. General information about the experimental system
Components and handling

The following list shows all the items included in the leXsolar BioEnergy Ready-to-go. For each component
you will find a short description with an item number, an illustration, the pictogram in the test set-ups and
information about the operation. With the help of the item number you can order each item separately.

Small base unit (1602-01) with safety short-circuit plug (L2-06-033)

The small base unit is a plug-in board which can accommodate up to two modules. The electricity flows
through the cables attached to the bottom sides. To connect the modules on the base unit with others, there
are four connections on two opposite sides. Two short-circuit connectors also are available for connecting
modules to the base unit.
PEM-fuel cell module (1218-02)

High powered-PEM-fuel cell

Converts hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and water
Dimensions of fuel cell: 32x32x32 mm
Dimensions of bracket: 85x85 mm
Output voltage: 0.6 V (DC)
Output current: 0.45 A
Power: 270 mW

26
Motor module (1100-27) with propeller (L2-02-017)

Plug-in module with DC motor

Starting current: approx. 20 mA
Starting voltage: approx. 0.35 V
Equipped with automatic overvoltage protection
Version: plug-in module with 4 mm sockets
Pitch of the sockets: 70 mm
Module size 85 mm x 85 mm

Germination box (1700-12)

The germination box is used to germinate the plant seeds.

In 49 individual compartments, the plant seeds can be inserted and the germination process can be
controlled and observed.
Holes in the compartments guarantee the drainage of water and thus prevent mold growth of the seeds and
seedlings.

27
Expanded clay pebbles (1700-05)

The expended clay pebbles (Exclay) act as a substrate in the BioEnergy hydroponic culture. The exclay can
be washed an reused
Fertilizer (1700-06)

Plant nutrients for BioEnergy hydroponics:

Total Nitrogen (N) 18%, Phosphate (P2O5) 11%, Potassium Oxide (K2O) 18%, Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
2.5%, Sulfur Trioxide (SO3) 8%, Iron (Fe) 0.1%, Manganese (Mn) 0.04%, Boron (B) 0.01%, Copper (Cu)
0.01%, Molybdenum (Mo) 0.001%, Zinc (Zn) 0.01%

 For more information see the link below:

https://icl-sf.com//global-en/products/ornamental_horticulture/2041-universol-blue/
Everris International BV, Nijverheidsweg 1-5; 6422 PD Heerlen (NL);

28
Compost Accelerator (1700-07)

Bio-active composting agent

starts and optimizes the heat fermentation
pure natural substances

 For more information see the link below:

https://www.dehner.de/produkte/dehner-bio-kompostbeschleuniger-5-kg-X000141887/
Dehner GmbH & Co. KG, Donauwörther Str. 3-5, D-86641 Rain

Composter (1700-08)

2-piece stick together compost container

The transparent cover makes it possible to visually observe all processes and changes.

The base plate with feet and holes allows the drainage of excess fluid and sufficient ventilation of the
compost.

Should be placed on an appropriate plate.

29
Gas collecting vessel (1700-09)

,
The gas container allows the collection of the methane and hydrogen gases converted by biogas processing.
Via a silicone hose the gas can be distributed to the burner
Using the printed scale, the rate of gas formation can be observed depending on different parameters.

Bunsen burner (1700-10)

The burner is used for the controlled burning of gases from the biogas processes.
The gas collected in the gas receiver is fed to the burner via a silicone pipe and a ball valve.

30
Tripod plant lighting (1700-11) and Plant lamp (L2-04-194)

On the tripod, the plant lamps are installed to illuminate the hydroponic plants.

Box 6 L (1700-13)

Together with the germ box and the atomizer, the box is used for the first step in biomass production: the
germination of plant seeds.
Holes in the lid of the box ensure adequate ventilation of the plant seeds and seedlings.

Tripod (1700-14)

The tripod acts as a holder for the gas collecting vessel.

31
Seed set (1700-15)

The seed-set contains the plant seeds for growing the biomass.
It contains corn, wheat, sugar beet, radish and salad seeds.

Rubber plug with tube (1700-16)

The rubber plug guarantees the airtight sealing of the Erlenmeyer flasks.

The formed biogas is fed into the gas collecting vessel through the hose.

ID tags (1700-17)

For numbering the plants

32
Box 75mm (L3-01-012) and pot holder (L2-01-120)

The pot holder keeps the net pots in hydroponic culture and can accommodate 24 pots.
Outlet timer (L2-06-185)

The timer is used for the individual time settings of switching on and off of the connected electronic devices.
minimum selectable time interval: 30 min
1. Adjust the current time
2. Set up the individual time interval by pressing the black buttons
3. Switch from continuous mode to interval mode

Air pump (L2-06-186), tube inside 4mm (L2-02-046) and air stone (L2-06-187)

The pump introduces the air into the hydroponic space through the tube and aeration stone to prevent algae
growth in the water.

33
Net pot planter (L2-06-188) and stopper red (L2-06-199)

Using the expanded clay pebbles, seedlings and plants can be grafted in the net pots.
The plugs are used for sealing the free spots in the hydroculture, if no net cup planters are applied, to
prevent the entering of light in order of algae growth.

EC meter (L2-06-189)

The meter measures the electrical conductivity of liquids. (Unit µS/cm)

This physical scale indicates a material's ability to conduct an electric flow.

Temperature logger (L2-06-190)

The device records temperature values in individually selectable time intervals.

The recorded data can be read via a USB interface and the associated software on the PC

34
Programming the temperature logger:
I. Install the software on your PC.
You can download the software via: http://www.elitechlog.com/softwares/
II. Insert the coin cell into the logger as shown in the short description.
III. Connect the logger via USB to your PC.
IV. Date and time should synchronize automatically as soon as you click on “connection” (1.)
(It can also be synchronized by clicking “Set Clock Of Data Logger”)

35
 V. Via “Parameter Set” (2.) you can program different parameters for temperature recordings
VI. Via “”Parameter Interval” (3.) u can set the time between the unique points of measurements
VII. You can also choose between °C and °F
VIII. Via “Save Parameter” (4.) you can save your experiment data
Please note that all collected date will be erased, if u set new parameters
IX. Start the logging procedure by pressing the “►” button for 4 seconds. The symbol ”►” also should
appear on the screen of the temperature logger.

36
 X. For evaluation you can use the program provided and export your data by clicking
“Upload Data” (5.) or save the data as Excel, PDF, Word or TXT file. (6.)

Scale (L2-06-191)

Using the scale, the weight of the plants and thus the biomass growth is determined.
Effective range of measurement: up to 5 kg, tolerance: 1 g

37
Tweezers (L2-06-192)

Tool for gripping small objects, such as seedlings

made of plastic
Hose clamp (L2-05-141)

To restrict or close the air hoses

Erlenmeyer flask (L2-06-075)

Erlenmeyer flask 1000 ml with grinding NS 29/32

Borosilicate glass

38
Atomizer (L2-06-200)

The atomizer is used to moisten the plant seeds in the germination box to germinate them.
Hight (d*H): 4,6*2,5 cm
Sprayed Volume: 350 ml/h
Depth of the water: 5-7 cm
Output: 24 V/ 1A
Input: AC 100-240 V/ 50/60 Hz

39
Safety instructions

Operators should wear protective clothing during handling of dangerous liquids.

Laboratory equipment and glassware should be inspected prior to each use to ensure that cracks, chips or
other defects are not present.

Repaired equipment has to be cleaned and decontaminated.

Fertilizer (Universol Blue 323 18-11-18+2.5MgO+TE)

H272 May intensify fire; oxidizer

H318 Causes serious eye damage

P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. — No smoking.

P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection

P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

P310 Immediately call a poison center or doctor/physician

Do not dispose the fertilizer directly into the sewage system, earth or water.

Compost accelerator

If on Skin: Wash your skin carefully with a lot of water

If in the eye: Flush the eye carefully and call a doctor

If swallowed: Rinse your mouth with water and drink a lot. Do not force regurgitation and call a doctor.

Do not dispose the accelerator directly into the sewage system, earth or water.

Carbon Dioxide

P403 Store in a well ventilated place.

40
Methane and Hydrogen

H220 Extremely flammable gas.

P220 Keep away from clothing/ other combustible materials.

P377 Leaking gas fire: Do not extinguish, unless leak can be stopped safely.
P381 In case of leakage, eliminate all ignition sources if safe to do so.

P403 Store in a well-ventilated place.

Glass equipment

Before experimentation search the glass equipment for damaged parts to avoid cuts and other injuries.
Broken glass can be a huge health threat and can lead to further laceration and chemical burn.

Please avoid fast variation in temperature. This can lead to tensions in the glass structure and to breakage of
the glass.

Please avoid fast variation in pressure. This can also lead to breakage of the glass

Glassware can lead to deep cuts if handled incorrectly. Keep bandages and tweezers ready to remove any
small pieces. For larger glass fragments near the arteries, immediately seek medical advice and do not
remove chips on your own.

Operation of the PEM fuel cell

Specifications:

- Output power: 270 mW

- Output voltage: 0,6 V (DC)
- Output current: 0,45 A

Important handling guidelines:

- Whenever not in use, the fuel cell should be stored in an air-tight plastic bag, to keep it from drying
out.

41
User instructions:

1. To operate the fuel cell, hydrogen gas is needed.

2. If the hydrogen is taken from the gas tank, the tube must be clamped to avoid hydrogen gas to leak.

3. The tube of the H2 tank must be connected to the lower port of the fuel cell. The O2 supply for this model is
ensured by the ambient air.

4. The upper port of the fuel cell must be sealed, using a short piece of tube and a pin.

5. The fuel cell can now be placed onto the module plate and be connected to it using the respective cables
(red for O2, black for H2).

6. Now, the unit can be connected to an electrical load by playing it onto the small base unit. (Mind the
polarity!).

7. By opening the tube clamp the experiment can be started.

NOTE: For quantitative experiments like taking a characteristic curve, we recommend flushing the fuel cell
with hydrogen gas by initiation the gas supply (opening the tube clamp on the tank or opening the valve on
the H2 storage) and removing the pin on the short tube for only 1-2 seconds.

42
III. Student’s experiments

1. Germination of plant seeds

Get the seeds in the box to sprout.

Observe their behavior and note the germination time.

- Germination box
- Box 6 L
- Seed-Set
- Atomizer
- Outlet timer
- Fertilizer
- EC-Meter
- ID-Tag

Additionally:
- Water

Build-up the germination box:

1. Put the germ box and atomizer in the 6 L box, as shown in the figure above.
2. Make a solution of fertilizer and water with an EC value of 900 µS/cm and fill the box so that the atomizer
is completely covered. Make sure that the germination box is not in the water.
3. Putt one seed from the seed set into the slots of the germination box and mark the compartments with
the ID tags.
4. Close the 6L box with its lid so that the atomizer cable is passed through the recess and the ventilation
slots are above the setting box.
5. Plug in the atomizer to a power outlet using the outlet timer. Program the timer that the atomizer is active
every two hours for half an hour. Adjust every third switch of the clock down, all others upwards.
(Check page 33 for more information)

Addition of fertilizer and water:

Because the seeds and seedlings always have the same environmental conditions, it is important to supply
feed water and fertilizer regularly.
1. Measure every 2-3 days the EC value of the water in the germination box.
2. Add water and fertilizer (if necessary) until the EC value to be reached 900 µS/cm.
3. Make sure the atomizer is completely covered with the solution and the germination box is not in the
water.
4. After about 2-3 weeks, you should completely change the water in the germination box. Clean all
materials with a little detergent and rebuild the germination box as described above.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 43

Germination:

1. Write down in the table for each seed the associated ID number and the date on which you put it in the
germination box.
2. Observe the seeds every day and record the date of germination.
3. After germination, you can measure the size of the seedlings daily and enter them in the database.
4. If the seedlings are big enough, you can put them into a net pot as described in Exercise 1.2.
(Tipp: Generally seedlings are big enough to be transferred into hydroculture, if they reach over the edges of the
germination box)

Plant Starting date Date of Size 1.day Size 2.day Size 3. day …
species germination
Corn
Radish
Lettuce
Wheat
Sugar beet

Evaluation

1. Which seeds germinate quickly? Which ones slower?

Plant
species
Germ time

2. Which seedlings are growing fast?

Corn and radish should germ within 3 to 5 days

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 44

 2. Plant growth in hydroponic culture

Let your seedlings in hydroponic culture grow to plants under artificial lighting. Record your observations.

- Box 75 mm
- Pot holder tray
- Net pot
- Expanded clay pebbles
- Stopper red
- Air stones
- Hoses
- Y- switch
- Air pump
- Plant lamps
- Tripod plant lighting
- Time switch
- EC-meter
- Scale
- Tweezer
- Fertilizer

Additionally:
- Water
- Ruler or tape measure

Build-up the hydroponic culture:

1. Connect one tube through each of the small holes in the pot holder and attach one air stone at the end of
the tubes, which is later paced into the hydroponic box. Connect the free ends of the tube to the Y-
distributor and connect it to the air pump through the main tube.
2. Lock the pot holder on the 75 mm box.
3. Take the label on the edge of the two boxes (1 and 2) using a waterproof pen or sticker.
4. Put a net pot in each hole of the pot holder.
5. Make a solution of fertilizer and water with an EC value of 1100 µS/cm. Fill the box with the solution till all
net pots are dunked in about 0.5 cm.
6. Plug in the air pump into a power outlet and set the wheel to "max." Make sure the air is discharged into
the water through both air stones.
7. The tube clamp can be used to equally adjust the supply of oxygen through the air stones. To do so,
select the ventilation block from which most of the air diffuses and attach the clamp to the associated
tube. Turn the tube clamp until the same amount of air bubbles comes out of both diffusers.
8. Control regularly, whether the same quantity of air bubbles diffuse from both diffusers and adjust the tube
clamp if necessary.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 45

Build-up the lighting:

1. Set up the tripod for the lights. (Number 17 in the layout diagram)
2. Connect the light bulb holder to the tripod. (Number 11 in the layout diagram). Put the light bulbs into the
holder.
3. Plug in the plant lighting through the outlet timer to a power outlet.
4. Set up the correct time; Program the timer that the light is active between 06:00 and 20:00.
Adjust the current time with the small arrow in the middle of the clock and push all buttons between 06:00
and 20:00 down. (See page 33)
5. Put the tripod between both hydroponics and align the plant lamps so that both boxes are well lit.

Transfer the seedlings to hydroculture:

1. Once the height of the seedlings is higher than the walls of the germination box, they can be transferred
into the hydroponic culture.
2. Prepare net cups and clay pebbles.
3. Use the tweezers to take a seedling from the germination box and hold it in the center of a net pot.
4. Fill the net pot with clay pebbles carefully so that the seedling can stand stably in it.
5. Put the corresponded ID number of the seedling in the potty.
6. Place the planted net pot in the hydroponic box.
7. You can cover the vacant places in the hydroponic culture with red plastic plugs.

Hint:
Small sprouts, like lettuce seedlings, need to be
transfered although they are still very small. Fill the net
pots only with so many expanded clay pebbles that they
just poke out from the water. Lay the seedlings onto the
excaly pebbles, that the roots can reach the water and
the leaves are out of the water.
Be patient, this procedure can take some time.

Addition of fertilizer and water:

To ensure that the plants always have the same environmental conditions, it is important to feed water and
fertilizer regularly.

1. Every 2-3 days, check the EC value of the water in your hydroponic culture.
2. Add water and fertilizer if necessary until the EC value reaches to 1100 µd/cm.
3. Note in the data table with the corresponding date for both hydroponic boxes that how much water you
have added and if you have re-fertilized.

After about 3 weeks, you should completely change the water in the hydroponic cultures. Clean all materials
with a little detergent and reassemble the hydroponic culture as described above. You can carefully remove
the net pots with the plants. Make sure that the roots do not break off.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 46

Observation of plant growth:

Note the weight and size of your plants every 2-3 days.

1. Use the scale for specification of the weight.

2. Take a net pot with a plant from the hydroponic culture and drain the water well.
3. Weigh the net pot using the scale and note the weight and the plant ID in your data table.
4. By determining the weight in two different days, you can calculate how fast the plants gain weight.
5. If you add exclay stabilize the plant, record the weight of the added pebbles so that you can recalculate
this value the next time.
 Example:
o Day 1: 13,5 g
o Day 2: 14,1 g
 After weighing, 3.4 g of expanded clay pebbles are added
o Day 3: 18,3 g

o Increased weight Day 1-2: 14,1 g – 13,5 g = 0,6 g

o Increased weight Day 2-3: 18,3 g – 14,1 g – 3,4 g = 0,8 g

9. You can measure the size of the plants with a ruler or tape measure.
10. Start with measuring at the top of the pot and measure it to the highest tip of the leaf.
11. Note also any other changes that you can observe in the plants, such as yellowish or dry leaves, flower
and bud formation or fruit and turnip formation.

The experiment shows good results after 2-3 weeks. You can also continue it for several months.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 47

Record your measurement by specifying the corresponding plant ID in the data table in the section "Plant
growth". Record the weight, size and other observations or deficiency symptoms.

1. Which colors of the light spectrum does the plant LED send out and why?


2. Display the growth of your plants graphically with a diagram of the hight and the weight as a
function of the number of days of your experimentations
Example:

weight of the plants (ID)

100
90
80
70
wieght in g

60
radish(15)
50
radish(11)
40
30 radish(13)
20 redish(12)
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
days of hydroculturing

3. Which plants grow up quickly?

4. Which plants make the biomass quickly?

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 48

 3. Nutrient and water consumption

Observe the nutrient and water consumption of your plants in the hydroponic culture as a function of the
biomass.

- EC-meter

The observation of the nutrient and water consumption can be carried out parallel to experiment 1.2.

EC-value observation

1. Note the EC value of your hydroponics every 2-3 days, like you do when you measure the size and
weight of your plants.
2. Also note when you have re-fertilized and how the values have changed. Write down the measured value
in the data table before and after fertilization.

Water consumption

1. Check every 2-3 days how much water the plants have used in your hydroponic culture.
2. Fill the water with a measuring beaker to the mark in your hydroponic culture and note the added amount
of water. This amount of water corresponds to the water consumed since the last filling.
3. Note when you completely change the water.

The consumption of fertilizer and water depends on the size and the growth phase of the plants. Use the
measurements from experiment 1.2 to calculate the total biomass of the plants in your hydroponic culture
and enter them into the data table.
Also note in the column "Observations" all changes to your plants, as in Experiment 1.2.
.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 49

Record your measurements in a data table under the headings "EC Basin 1" and "EC Basin 2".

5. What do you notice?

The more the plants grow (the larger the total biomass in a basin) the faster the EC value decreases. This
means that larger plants consume more nutrients.

Draw the EC value graph as a function of time.

EC value box 1
1600
1400
1200
1000
EC value

800
600
400
200
0
1 6 11 15 27 31 35 39 44 49 53 57 61
Days

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 50

Plot the decrease of the EC values as a function of the biomass.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 51

 4. Aerobic decomposition

Build-up the compost and observe the change in temperature, volume and appearance.

- Compost
- Compost accelerator
- Temperature logger

Additional:
- Organic waste
- Tree branches
- Animal waste
- Leaves, grass

How to build-up the composter:

1. Close the plastic composter by forming a cylinder and putting the plastic hooks into the openings on the
other side.
2. Connect the ground plate to the cylinder. Hook the cylinder to the plate by inserting the clamps into the
holes. The composter should now stand on the rubber pads.

Filling the composter:

1. To fill the composter you need the organic waste like small branches, grass, leaves and animal waste
(e.g.: from your guinea pig). Please be aware that you don’t use citrus fruits or already molding
components.
2. Mix everything in a bucket.
3. Add a teaspoon of compost accelerator and some water and mix it again in the bucket
4. Now fill the organic waste into the composter. Don’t compress the compost.
5. Insert the temperature logger from top into the middle of the compost.

BioEnergy Ready-to-go Teacher’s manual 52

Recording with the temperature logger:

1. Connect the temperature logger via USB to your PC:

(A short instruction can be found in the abstract handling or at www.elitechlog.com/softwares/)
a. Current date and time should synchronize automatically
b. Set the interval of measuring to 15 min
c. Set the minimum and maximum oft he logging process to 20 °C and 60 °C (70 °F and 140 °F)
2. Note the room temperature
3. Activate the temperature logger by pressing the play „►“ button for four seconds and start collecting data
for at least two weeks

Observe the filling height and the appearance

Note the room temperature every day and every 2- 3 days the filling height - or at least two weeks!

Room
Date Filling height [cm] Appearance
temperature

1. Attach the temperature logger via USB to the PC and read out the collected data. You can also print
them and discuss them in class.

2. Make a diagram of the filling hight over the time.

3. Describe the visual changes of your compost over time and explain them.

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 5 Anaerobic decomposition to hydrogen

Generate hydrogen from biomass. Prove the production via oxyhydrogen torch or by converting chemical
into electrical energy with the help of the PEM fuel cell.

- Erlenmeyer flask
- Rubber plug
- Gas collecting vessel
- PEM Fuel cell
- Motor module with propeller
- Cable
- Compost accelerator

Additional:
- Glucose
- Boiling water
- Matches or lighter
- Test tube

Build-up the Experiment:

1. Fill the Erlenmeyer flask with 30 g glucose and 10 g compost accelerator.

2. Add 1 liter of boiling water and close the flask with the rubber plug
3. Put the whole collecting system together and close it to the biomass in the Erlenmeyer flask:
a. The collecting system contains two vessels: one small for collecting the gas and the bigger one
with a scale and 2 connections in the top and bottom as a balancing container
b. The collecting container should be screwed into the balancing container
c. Put the collecting system onto the tripod and connect the hose of the Erlenmeyer flask to the
bottom
d. Fill the pressure balancing container with water. The gas collecting container should also fill with
water
e. Fill it with water till it reaches the zero mark
f. Pull the hose off the top of the inner gas collecting container through the hole in the top cover of
the balancing container. Connect it to the valve and close the valve.
g. There is one hose left. Connect one end to the valve and the other to the fuel cell.

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 Functioning: The bacteria in the Erlenmeyer flask will produce gas. This gets into the gas
collecting container and pushes the water out into the balancing container. With the scale you
can observe this procedure. If the valve gets opened the gas pours out of the collecting vessel
and water pours in again.

4. After 1- 2 days of waiting you should observe that there is some gas collected.

Oxyhydrogen torch

5. If the gas collecting vessel is half-full use the test tube upside down and let some of the produced gas
flow into it. Then hold a flame to the opening of the test tube and note your observations.
Please be careful and wear gloves

Gas production – with and without heating

6. Open the valve and let the gas out. How much gas (see the volume scale) was produced after one hour?
7. Repeat the experiment but warm the Erlenmeyer flask up by putting it on a heating unit. How much gas
was produced after an hour in comparison to the previous experiment?

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Fuel cell

8. Put the hose of the gas collecting vessel to the fuel cell and open the valve
9. Connect the motor module and the fuel cell to the base unit and connect them with the short circuit plugs
10. Wait approximately 15 to 30 minutes. When does the motor start spinning?

1. Oxyhydrogen torch
Observations:

2. Collecting gas
Hydrogen volume without heating
Hydrogen volume with heating

3. Fuel cell
Observations:

1. Why does the gas explode?

2. Explain the different gas volume, with and without heating?

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 6. Anaerobic decomposition to methane

Convert biomass to methane and prove its production by burning it.

- Erlenmeyer flask
- Rubber plug
- Gas collecting vessel
- Bunsen burner

Additional:
- Cow dung
- Water

1. Get some cow dung from a farm or a field. (pig dung or guinea pig dung also works)
2. Fill the Erlenmeyer flask up to 2/3 with cow dung and add 1/3 of water.
3. Put on the rubber plug and shake it a bit.
4. Put the whole collecting system together and close it to the biomass in the Erlenmeyer flask:
a. The collecting system contains two vessels: one small for collecting the gas and the bigger one
with a scale and 2 connections in the top and bottom as balancing container
b. The collecting container should be screwed into the balancing container
c. Put the collecting system onto the tripod and connect the hose of the Erlenmeyer flask to the
bottom
d. Fill the pressure balancing container with water. The gas collecting container should also fill
with water
e. Fill it with water till it reaches the zero mark
f. Pull the hose off the top of the inner gas collecting container through the hole in the top cover
of the balancing container. Connect it to the valve and close the valve.
g. There is one hose left. Connect one end with the valve and the other with the Bunsen burner.

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 Functioning: The bacteria in the Erlenmeyer flask will produce gas. This gets into the gas
collecting container and pushes the water out into the balancing container. With the scale you
can observe this procedure. If the valve gets opened the gas pours out of the collecting vessel
and water pours in again.

5. After two weeks you should observe some gas production.

6. If the gas collecting container is filled up by more than 25% you can try to burn it.
a. Open the valve and try to set the Bunsen burner on fire. Please be careful!
b. A blue flame should be visible. It is the best seen in the dark or against a dark background so
you can switch the light off.
c. If the gas is not burning in the beginning, let out all gas and try to test it again after a couple of
days
d. As soon as u can see a flame you can continue with further experiments.

Gas production with and without heating

7. Empty the gas collecting container.
8. Note down how much gas is produced during a day or half a day.
9. Empty the gas collecting container
10. Note down how much gas is produced during a day or half a day if you heat up the Erlenmeyer flask.

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Methane production

start test 1 test 2 test 3 …

Date, time
Flammability ---

Gas production with and without heating

With heating Without heating

Date, time volume (ml) Date, time volume (ml)

Start
After half a day
After one day

How long does it take to produce flammable gas? Explain your observations?
At first the gas is not flammable, because the bacteria only produce carbon dioxide.

How much gas can be produced during one day, using heating and without? Why is there a
difference?

The activity of the bacteria is temperature dependent – so they are more active and produce more
methane, if the Erlenmeyer flask is heated up.

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