Agricultural Engineering/Agronomy, Central Iowa, and BioCentury Research Farms

Pilot-Scale Bioreactor System for Replicated Field Research: Woodchip Evaluation and Corn Cob Refill

Authors: Natasha Hoover (Iowa State University) , Michelle Soupir (Iowa State University)

Abstract

Bioreactors are being installed throughout Iowa to address the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy's goals to achieve 41 percent nitrate reduction from non-point sources. Due to varying removal efficiencies reported for woodchip filled bioreactors, and the limited wood chip supply in Iowa, alternate fill materials should be evaluated. Multiple fill materials have been evaluated for nitrate removal potential in laboratory settings, and corn cobs have been shown to achieve high removal efficiencies. A concern with corn cob use in bioreactors is a potential increase in carbon released in drainage water.

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How to Cite: Hoover, N. & Soupir, M. (2019) “Pilot-Scale Bioreactor System for Replicated Field Research: Woodchip Evaluation and Corn Cob Refill”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports. 2018(1).