Maximizing the value of Korshinsk peashrub branches by the integration of Pleurotus tuoliensis cultivation and anaerobic digestion of spent mushroom substrate.

Korshinsk peashrub branches (Korpb) are agroforestry byproducts that accumulate in millions of tons per year and need to be reasonably utilized. To maximate the utilization value of Korpb, an integrated process was proposed and conducted by using Korpb as the main substrate ingredient for Pleurotus tuoliensis cultivation and also performing anaerobic digestion (AD) of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) for biogas production. The results indicated that the cultivation substrate including Korpb could obtain higher mushroom yields than a conventional substrate, and AD of SMS added the value of Korpb. Preliminary calculation suggested that, for every t of P. tuoliensis production, 1.65 t Korpb was consumed and 314 m3 biogas was produced from corresponding amount of SMS, bringing a total economic profit of $906.1. In addition, this integrated strategy has positive ecological and social benefits. The maximization of Korpb value can not only promote the biological conversion of Korpb to circle economy, but also be beneficial for the development of environment, energy conservation and edible fungus industry. • Korpb is a lignocellulose biomass resource with great potential. • Integration of P. tuoliensis cultivation and AD of SMS maximized the value of Korpb. • The economic profit achieved $906.1 for every t of P. tuoliensis production. • The integrated strategy has positive ecological and social benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]