ENERGY CAPACITY OF BROILER LITTER USED AS A SUBSTRATE FOR BIOGAS PRODUCTION IN THE SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF THE STATE OF PARANÁ, BRAZIL

Abstract

The breeding of confined broilers produces wastes that cause environmental problems. They require different management procedures since they may generate great environmental impact and consequently disposal for the residues produced. Current paper assessed the energy capacity of broiler litter used as a substrate for the production of biogas in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. A qualitative, quantitative and exploratory research was undertaken for data in specific bibliographies on the subject and the characterization of poultry production in the region. Poultry biomass was characterized chemically and later evaluated in three treatments to determine the capacity for biogas production. Results showed that the southwestern region of the state of Paraná produces 39,173,367 broilers/year in 38 municipalities, with 51,219.17 tons of biomass in the form of broiler litter/year. The biomass, comprising nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium calcium, magnesium and sulfates, produces biogas in the three treatment systems under analysis, although the second treatment was the most viable. The biofertilizers, with pH between 6.58 and 8.02, proved to be rich in macro- and micro-nutrients, mainly nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, boron, copper, zinc and manganese. Biomass from broiler litter may be a viable alternative in the production of biogas which will be capable of replacing traditional fuel and electric energy in poultry-breeding farms in the region.