Iron limitation effect on H2/CO2 biomethanation: Experimental and model analysis

Trace metals are indispensable for the metalloenzymes involved for efficient H2/CO2 biomethanation. In-depth understanding of trace metals requirements of methanogens cannot only lead to robust and stable operation, but also can enhance CH4 productivity. In this study, the effect of Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Mo and W on the H2/CO2 biomethanation was examined. In a period of nutrient deprivation, suppression of hydrogenotrophic archaea was revealed at higher feed gas rates, leading to a significant drop in CH4 content and a concomitant rise in acetic acid concentration. After nutrient supplementation, the increase in Co, Ni and Fe concentrations were pivotal factors for enhanced methanogenic activity, leading to a CH4 content of more than 98% in the outlet biogas and a sharp drop in acetic acid concentration. Moreover, mathematical modeling was employed to simulate the influence of the most prominent element, iron, on the biomethanation process. The amended BioModel demonstrated that Fe limitation suppresses hydrogenotrophic archaea which consequently leads to H2 accumulation and growth of homoacetogenic bacteria. [Display omitted] •Effect of nutrients deficiency on H2/CO2 biomethanation was experimentally assessed.•Effect of iron on the biomethanation process was modeled.•Lack of iron impaired hydrogenotrophs and enhanced homoacetogenic activity.•Nutrients supplementation using digested manure avoided acetate accumulation.•Nutrients replenishment recovered hydrogenotrophs and decreased homoacetogenesis.