Biogas Magazine Edition 26

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SEPURAN® GREEN - 1,000 reference plant for efficient biogas upgrading

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NATIONAL CORNER

12

Green Revolution at Gorakhpur Mandir Nyas: a pioneering biogas plant transforming waste into wealth

16

Interview In conversation with Mr. Siddharth Desai

26

Revolutionizing Biogas Production:

31

Latest Desulphurisation Methods:

33

Mandatory use of bio-gas by fertiliser units likely new scheme proposed by industry similar to existing one for oil companies

36

Biogas Upgradation Technologies

a comprehensive guide to choosing the right compressor for your plant

Using Iron Hydroxide-based technologies

at a glance

INTERNATIONAL CORNER

22

DryQUBE – Biogas Digestor a solution to paddy straw burning

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 5

“

Dear Reader, Happy New Year!

Welcome to the latest edition of Biogas Magazine, where we delve into the fascinating world of Biogas—a sustainable energy source that holds the key to a cleaner, greener future. Moving forward, in this wonderful progressive journey of mankind, it is becoming inevitable for us to switch to cleaner and renewable fuels in the overall energy mix.

In recent years, the global shift towards renewable energy has gained unprecedented momentum, and biogas not only stands out as the fuel of choice and the lowest-hanging fruit in our climate change mitigation efforts but is also able to cater to organic farming. In the last year, many significant milestones were achieved, e.g., the launch of PM PRANAM (PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth), which promotes alternative fertilizers and balanced use of chemical fertilizers; and the MDA for Fermented Organic Manure along with the earlier announced GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) scheme. A 5 percent CBG mandate was also announced to promote CBG usage by all OMCs. The recent outcome at COP28, Dubai, in the form of transitioning from fossil fuels to achieving net zero by 2050 was indeed monumental. The members also committed to tripling the world’s renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 GW by 2030 and doubling the overall energy efficiency improvements.

The launch of the Loss and Damage Fund with an initial pledge of USD 700 million has been widely appreciated by environmental enthusiasts, although the mobilized fund is still quite less as compared to the actual requirements to meet the net zero target. Nevertheless, a good beginning is half the job done, so we would stick by that and be optimistic about things to come.

In the pages that follow, you will explore the diverse facets of biogas technology and its far-reaching implications. From the innovative technologies driving advancements in anaerobic digestion to the inspiring stories of communities around the world adopting biogas solutions, this magazine aims to be your comprehensive guide to the present and future of this transformative energy source.

I invite you to immerse yourself in the stories, insights, and discoveries that await you on the following pages. We are committed to providing you with compelling viewpoints, case studies, cutting-edge models, insights from industry experts, best practices, and global developments in the biogas sector. We hope you find pleasure in the wide-ranging assortment of contributions from our multitude of contributors to the magazine. We want to captivate our readers and engage them with the green industry in the most thrilling way possible.

Editors Savita Boral Abhijeet Mukherjee Designer Komal Raghav Production Co-ordinator Jyoti Malik

About Us The “Indian Biogas Association” (IBA) is the first nationwide and professional biogas association for operators, manufacturers and planners of biogas plants, and representatives from public policy, science and research in India.

The association was established in 2011 and revamped in 2015 to promote a greener future through biogas. The motto of the association is “propagating biogas in a sustainable way”.

Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey and again I wish you a happy and prosperous new year ahead.

/biogasindia Happy digesting! /indianBiogasAssociation

Dr. A. R. Shukla President Indian Biogas Association

/indian-biogas-association

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 6

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IBA’s commitment to advancing industry

Prospect for Biogas/Bio-CNG - Period: October- December, 2023

Training workshop for credit officers at GTI On November 2nd and 3rd, IBA, in partnership with the World Bank, SIDBI, and GAIL conducted a training workshop on CBG basics for Credit Officers from various Financial Institutions (Banks).

Almost all of India's commercial banks were represented at the two-day event conducted at GAIL Training Institute, Noida. The first day included theoretical classbased training to familiarize

credit officers with the industry's fundamentals (technical, regulatory, financial, and so on). Subsequently, a visit to a CBG facility in Muzaffarnagar (in the NCR region) was arranged on the second day. This gave the training program participants a better understanding of the projects.

More specifically, there is an apparent reluctance among lenders to take appropriate credit exposure to this industry. So, in an industry with few financing trends to rely on, the end decision in terms of lending is influenced not only by the inherent risks but also by the lender's ability to assess the risk effectively and its general comfort with the industry.

The real purpose of the training was to bridge the existing knowledge asymmetry on As a result, risk-averse lendvarious fronts connected to ers, as is more commonly the biogas/CBG business. the case, are more skepti-

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 9 cal towards exposure than fundamental analysis would imply. As a result, additional protection measures, such as collateral with progressive haircuts, guarantees, and increased borrowing costs, are implemented. So, such capacity development activities must take place regularly to ensure proper awareness among industry stakeholders via the lens of financial institutions and vice versa. This will foster the much-needed trust and velocity for effective capital infusion in the biogas/bio-CNG business.

IBA organized a national workshop on ‘Promoting Bioenergy, a Special Focus: Green Heat/ Steam, and CBG in MSMEs’: A workshop on modern bioenergy solutions and the promotion of green heat/steam in MSMEs, including the National Bioenergy Program, was jointly organized by GIZ

and the Indian Biogas Association (IBA) on December 21 and 22, 2023 at Vadodara, Gujarat, under the direction of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

The workshop aimed to promote biomass and biogas/ CBG as a sustainable energy solution.

The workshop, which was organized in hybrid mode, saw more than 200 people register for the webinar and helped industry stakeholders develop a better understanding of the current biogas/ bio-CNG ecosystem in India.

A perfect blend of speakers took the stage on the first day of the workshop.

Mr. Renganathan, Biotherm Ind., Col. Rohit Dev, Mr. Yogesh Dhangle, Director, Enneff Solutions, Mr. Ashish Maheshwari, Director, Evonik India Ltd., Sh. Deepak Gadhia, Trustee, MSA, Mr. Srinivas Kasulla, Director, Arka Brenstech Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Abhijeet Mukherjee, Director, IBA, Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, SPRERI, Mr. Bhimankar Shetkar, COO, NDDB Mrida,Mr. B.R. Singh, CEO, Atmos Power, Mr. Viral Patel, GM, MSA Bioenergy, Mr. Atul Mittal, Director, Sistema bio, Mr. Sanjay Patel, CEO, SP Ecofuels, Mr. Aditya Vardhan, Manager, Homebiogas, Dr. Vanita Prasad, Director, REVY Environmental Solutions, and so on.

On the second day of the workshop, interested participants went on a field trip to Muni Seva Ashram (MSA), which provided an excellent introduction to a compreFrom the industry and insti- hensive and self-sustaining tute side, speakers included ecosystem/village.

From MNRE, Mr. Dinesh Jagdale (JS), Dr. Sangeeta Kasture (JS), Dr. Gaurav Mishra, and Mr. S.R. Meena addressed the participants.

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 10 this dependence, which is invaluable. Biogas blending has the potential to demonstrate a positive correlation with agricultural income growth which is also the case with ethanol. Every additional large-scale plant can ensure that almost 1,000 acres of nearby biogas plant area can be converted into organic agriculture. with natural gas can reduce Biogas can be produced LNG imports worth USD 1.17 from various organic waste billion. This can also bring sources, such as agricultural down per capita CO2 emis- waste, municipal solid waste, sions by two percent, bench- and food waste. This can creThe proposed 5 percent marked to the 2019 figure, ate new economic opporblending of biogas with which was 1.9 metric tonnes tunities for farmers, waste management companies, natural gas supplies in the of CO2 per person in India. and other stakeholders incountry can cut LNG imports worth USD 1.17 billion annu- Additionally, the body says volved in biogas production. ally, says a study by the Indi- preventing organic waste Blending biogas with natural an Biogas Association (IBA). from going to landfills can gas will streamline the marThe study comes against bring innumerable bene- ket for biofuels, making it the backdrop of the govern- fits. The CBO scheme shall more investor-friendly by rement's recent mandate to encourage investment of ducing capital and operationblend one percent biogas around Rs 37,500 crore and al costs, the body says. It also with Piped natural gas (PNG) facilitate the establishment needs to be emphasized that supplies in the country from of at least 750 compressed selling biofuels in the market April 1, 2025, under the biogas (CBG) projects by will become smoother, and Compressed biogas blending 2028–29, as per government the ecosystem will benefit obligation (CBO) scheme. estimates. This is going to im- from increased investor conprove India's energy security, fidence, IBA stated.

According to the study, this as it is currently heavily reliblending initiative gels well ant on imported natural gas with the government's mac- to meet its energy needs. ro-level move to make India a gas-based economy, with a Blending biogas with PNG target to increase the current and CBG can help reduce share of gas in the energy mix from 6 percent currently to 15 percent by 2030. The Abhijeet Mukherjee IBA estimates show that a 5 Director Operation Indian Biogas Association percent blending of biogas Proposed 5 percentage biogas blending with natural gas can cut LNG imports worth USD 1.17 billion

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Green Revolution at Gorakhpur Mandir Nyas: a pioneering biogas plant transforming waste into wealth

G

orakhpur, with its rich cultural heritage centered around the Gorakhnath Mandir, holds a special place in the religious and historical landscape of Uttar Pradesh.

The Gorakhnath Mandir has always remained a focal point for cultural and spiritual activities, attracting devotees, tourists, and scholars from across India. After March 2017, the Gorakhnath Mandir has also become a focal point of Power in Uttar Pradesh as the head priest of the Gorakhnath Mandir, Shri Yogi Adityanath ji, became the Chief Minister. His leadership has been marked by a focus on law and order, infrastructure development, and economic reforms.

To align with India’s climate change goals and to mitigate the adverse effects of traditional waste disposal methods, the Gorakhpur Mandir Nyas was determined to develop a biogas plant to minimize the Mandir's environmental impact and reduce its dependency on conventional energy sources.

The journey of innovation Driven by a vision to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources and minimize the Mandir's environmental footprint, the Gorakhpur Mandir Nyas embarked on a journey to establish a biogas plant. With a daily cattle dung availability of approximately 5 tonnes, the Mandir recognized the immense potential

of this organic waste to generate clean energy.

The contract was awarded to MSA Bio-Energy Pvt. Ltd., a Gujarat-based company with enormous experience in the field of Biogas. The company is a pioneer in the field of biogas technology and has developed a range of innovative biogas plants that are suitable for different applications. The company's biogas plants are known for their high efficiency, reliability, and durability.

Construction and commissioning With a team of experts, the company started the work for the biogas project and completed the same in record time despite the pandem-

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 13 ic. The meticulous planning and execution of the project culminated in the successful construction and commissioning of the biogas plant.

The project was designed on robust and proven KVIC floating dome technology with cutting-edge technology innovations and engineering expertise to handle 5MT of cattle dung per day. The commissioning ceremony on July 16, 2021 was a momentous occasion, attended by local dignitaries, environmentalists, and community members alike.

The plant efficiently converts cattle dung into biogas, a renewable and environmentally friendly fuel. The produced biogas is supplied to the kitchen in the Gorakhnath Mandir. The Temple serves food to hundreds of devotees every day. The food was earlier prepared using firewood and LPG cylinders. After the installation of the biogas plant, their LPG consumption has remained minimal. The biogas is supplied in the kitchen using advanced technology “Automated Gas Pressure Regulating System” (AGPRS) – developed by MSA Bio-Energy Pvt Ltd.

also supplied to the genset.

The Mandir’s existing genset was converted into dual dual-fuel genset and made functional on Biogas. This shift to biogas has not only reduced the Mandir's energy costs but also significantly minimized its carbon footprint.

Beyond dence

Energy

Indepen-

The benefits of the biogas plant extend beyond energy independence. The plant's organic manure, a nutrient-rich byproduct of the biogas production process, is utilized as fertilizer for the Mandir's agricultural endeavors, further promoting sustainable practices. The digested slurry coming out of the plant is stored in an underground slurry storage tank.

The solid from the digested slurry is separated using a mechanical de-watering machine. At full capacity, it produces 10,000 Ltrs of digested slurry every day.

The same is processed through an indigenously designed mechanical de-watering machine. Around 1.52 metric tonne of solid is extracted from the slurry every day. That itself is a nutriThe technology enables the ent-rich organic manure -but supply of biogas at far dis- the same is sent for vermi tances with constant pressure composting for further value – thus increasing cooking effi- addition. The separated water ciency. The biogas is not just is recycled. On average, 80% supplied to the kitchen but, of vermicompost produced

Figure 2: Biogas supplied at kitchen in the Temple

here is consumed in the Mandir’s farms – that saves Rs 4.00 Lacs to 5.00 Lacs a month on chemical fertilizer.

Excess vermi compost is sold at Rs. 8/Kg. The Mandir also organizes training for farmers to create awareness about organic fertilizer.

Environmental Impact One of the key success stories of the biogas plant is its positive impact on the environment. By efficiently converting cattle dung into biogas, the plant has significantly reduced methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. At full capacity, the plant reduces the GHG emission by 590

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 14 Conclusion The biogas plant at Gorakhpur Mandir Nyas offers proof of the organization's commitment to social change and environmental preservation.

Through the skillful integration of technology, environmental awareness, and community involvement, the project has emerged as a model of how creative solutions may effectively tackle urgent problems and promote longMT every year. Also, by using Community engagement term development. This biobiogas, the temple's firewood and awareness gas plant's success story not consumption has reduced by only resonates in Gorakhpur approximately 250 MT per Proactive approach has embut, also acts as a model for year which in turn save up powered the community to comparable projects around to 2000 trees every year. The take ownership of the project the globe, opening the door utilization of biogas as a clean and inspired a sense of envito a more sustainable and enenergy source has contribut- ronmental responsibility. vironmentally friendly future. ed to mitigating the adverse effects of traditional waste Parameter Composition disposal methods while proFeed material Cattle dung moting a circular economy.

Quantity of Feed Material 5000 Kg /day Socio-Economic Benefits Beyond its environmental impact, the project has brought about notable socio-economic benefits to the local community. The plant has created employment opportunities, with skilled and unskilled labor contributing to its daily operations. The plant has created employment for one skilled worker and three unskilled workers. Moreover, the sale of bio-fertilizers generated by the plant has provided an additional source of income, fostering economic sustainability.

Biogas production

200m3/day

Biogas utilization Length of gas supply line

For Thermal application in the kitchen 500m

Digested slurry output

10KL per day

Vermi compost output

1.5 - 2MT per day

GHG Emission reduction

590 MT/year

Viral Patel

General Manager

MSA Bio-Energy Pvt Ltd.

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Ghaziabad (NCR) Factory “Deepmala”Plot No: A-16/26, Sahibabad Industrial Area, Site –IV, Ghaziabad-201010, (UP) (India)

(India)

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 16

In conversation with

Mr. Siddharth Desai

Siddharth Desai Jt. Managing Director Kishor Pumps

Siddharth is the Jt. Managing Director at Kishor Pumps, a leading custom engineered pumps manufacturing company based in Pune, India. He is a chemical engineer from Pune University with a Master's in Environmental Engineering from Stanford University & holds a Certificate in Finance from Harvard University alongwith a Public Policy Certificate from the Indian School of Business.

What is your viewpoint of the evolving energy sector from a sustainability perspective with a particular emphasis on wastewater keeping, Biogas/CBG in perspective?

huge value to the wastewater sector, and biogas generation and its utilization can be a substantial boost. In several plants in India and worldwide, biogas generation is already supplying energy needs to the tune of 30 to even 100% Going forward, with evolving in some cases. But these extechnologies, biogas will play amples, unfortunately, are far a crucial role in the sustain- fragmented and scattered. ability of wastewater treatment operations and process- They need to be more consoles. Energy is a major cost of idated, and more widespread, wastewater treatment plants, to achieve the substantial imconsuming up to 60% of the pact of biogas on the sector in operating costs depending on terms of reducing external enthe technology used: aero- ergy footprint and the carbon bic or anaerobic. Any efforts intensity of the operations. that can reduce or offset en- Despite improvements in the ergy consumption, will be of technologies that generate

biogas, that is the yield of biogas through mixing or reactor designs which has been going on for the last two decades, more emphasis still needs to be given to enhancing technology to optimize yield from wastewater treatment plants, a lot of R&D and hence a lot of research and innovations have happened in the municipal solid waste or agro waste based biogas plants but not so much emphasis has been given on the wastewater. Industries that generate highstrength wastewater which is when the Chemical oxygen demand (COD) is more than 10,000 milligrams per litre.

They have a large, untapped

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 17 potential to generate surplus biogas. What the treatment needs, the energy that the treatment needs to be evaluated typically for industries like food and beverage, refineries, paper pulp distilleries, pharma, and anything that has organic resources as a feedstock which eventually turns out to be wastewater.

Wineries and breweries are primarily a part of this particular domain where a lot of disruption and innovation can happen. Some companies in Europe are present in India that are taking advantage of this opportunity. But it can be more widespread as currently, it is very limited in nature. There is a lack of awareness at the user level as well as at the corporate level in terms of the potential that these waste streams can offer towards offsetting their energy and carbon demands and using high-rate anaerobic digestion rather than aerobic technologies in such industries to treat and recycle the wastewater that should be more widespread. Municipal wastewater also has a vast potential, but there are limitations because the inherent carbon from which the biogas is generated is quite limited compared to industrial highstrength wastewater. Hence, industrial high-strength wastewater treatment and using biogas from that is a low-hanging fruit that can be tapped fairly quickly provided

the right push is given by both the industry and the governments towards the policy side.

nology is Aerobic Granular Sludge AGS, which is concentrated sludge. Concentrated density in very small areas increase so that in a smaller What specific, changes need area, you can have more bugs to be made in the renew- squeezed in, which can treat able energy sector for India the water more effectively. to reach its net-zero goals by 2070? How can the present Another technology that is wastewater industry sup- gaining strength across the port and catalyze it? world is called the Membrane-Aerated bioreactor Renewable energy is a vast (MABR). This is different from spectrum . There are oppor- MBR, which is most commontunities in every sector specif- ly understood and used. Aerically, in the wastewater sec- ation energy can be substantor. Wastewater treatment is tially reduced. an energy-intensive sector, so anything that aids in re- They still need to be more ducing the carbon footprint widespread and as scaled as of the energy consumption the conventional systems that in the wastewater sector is are there, but projects that a welcome move. Energy in are testing these projects at the wastewater sector is pri- scale should be able to scale marily consumed or needed them up fairly quickly. For in two processes: pumping the high spread of wastewaand aeration. There are few ter from the industries, food, other needs to primarily con- and pharma or the food and tribute to more than 75%, of beverage, pulp and paper use the total energy consumed high-rate anaerobic digesters, in wastewater treatment, so which can also help reduce any advances that can reduce energy consumption and that energy consumption, i.e. therefore contribute towards that big chunk of 75% will net zero goals. Conventionhave a significant impact on ally, distilleries in India, use reducing the overall energy low-strength or low-rate andemand, therefore, the car- aerobic digesters. bon intensity and hence toHowever, there are opporwards the net zero goals. tunities for using high-rate For example, in aerobic treat- anaerobic digesters. For exment technologies, some in- ample, USB was one of the novations are gaining strength first Aerobic Sludge Blanket worldwide. India needs to technologies that were used step up, and accept these as high-rate digesters in Intechnologies. One such tech- dia, but somehow there are

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 18 operational issues because of which they did not pick up strength, beyond a UASB there are several technologies that are coming up high rate digestion and they can degrade the organics, clean the water and generate a lot of biogas as well. Now another major energy demand in the wastewater sector is pumping. Pumping and aeration combined contribute to over 75 percent of the energy. And most of the pumping energy in the wastewater segment is in the conveyance networks.

So, there is not so much in the treatment plant itself. However, the conveyance networks transport water or wastewater from the source to the treatment plant. That consumes a lot of pumping energy. And It is more applicable for municipal-scale wastewater treatment plants rather than Industry because the wastewater treatment plants are located maybe 10/20/30 kilometers away from the residential or the source of wastewater or sewage and transporting water to wastewater is a big energy cost.

perspective but also from a water security perspective.

So freshwater availability is increasingly becoming a challenge for the entire world and India. With climate change and the uncertainty around water availability due to water disasters, water risk has increased. Using treated wastewater may remain the only solution for our water security needs.

So, from that sense, circularity in the water sector is essential for water security and indeed for social well-being and economic prosperity because without access to sufficient good quality water the social well-being of the community as well as the economic prospects are negatively impacted. So to ensure that we have the right model for circularity in the water sector when circularity is around the treated wastewater.

Now, biogas, as a part of this particular value chain, can play a very, important role because the large part of a hindrance in the circularity value chain in the water secHow can we reconcile sus- tor is energy cost. And biogas tainability challenges or can certainly help reduce that in other words how do we financial uncertainty and fimake circular thinking cen- nancial burden. This will play a crucial role in reducing the tral to the SDG agenda? energy cost and the carbon The circularity in the water intensity eventually of the sector or in used water or sector to promote circularity wastewater is critical not only as a holistic concept for water from an energy sustainability security, not just from a pol-

lution abetment perspective.

In 2047, India will celebrate 100 years of Independence, so to attain Atmanirbhar Bharat, what are your suggestions or opinions on making the CBG sector more robust?

Biogas should and will be a major building block for India to become self-reliant for our energy needs. Biogas is a very versatile energy source, so there should be more focus, targeted focus to see how the sector can be more integrated in the biogas value chain or vice versa like how the biogas value chain can also be more integrated with the wastewater sector. We all know the initiative under SATAT that the government has taken for the CBG sector. Agro-waste feedstocks primarily surround the SATAT projects or expressions of interest. A large part of is agro-waste feedstocks or municipal solid waste. However, there is a significant opportunity for CBG if you look at the wastewater sludge or sewage sludge sector for CBG. One of the beautiful parts about integrating CBG under the SATAT scheme with the wastewater sector is that the CBG or the combined entity will have a natural advantage compared to the agro waste.

Treatment plants tend to be located in or around city areas where the demand for

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 19 CBG is also there. So, the cost of logistics and management of logistics is much easier than your agro-based residues or municipal solid waste residues. So it's kind of a close value chain wherein we are getting the wastewater the most reliable water source known to urban planners. We can get wastewater whether it rains or not. So that's the most reliable source of feedstock for the CBG plants. And the sludge generated at these plants, you generate biogas from that and convert it to the compressed biogas and then supply to the city areas where you have the demand for CNG or even pipe natural gas.

A policy is upcoming or recently being implemented for injecting CBG natural gas. or biogas into the natural gas pipelines as biomethane.

Such policies already in place should be integrated with the CBG plants under the SATAT scheme with the sewage plants, which can have a multiplier effect ontheir own, reduce the cost and uncertainties, and increase the bankability of these projects.

Similarly, in industries, the biogas sector can play an important role in energy self-reliance or independence because biogas is a versatile energy source. It has a huge value in process heating, steam, or even electricity generation through combustion

engines. From a holistic perspective we can focus on integrating the SATAT initiative with the upcoming sewage or wastewater treatment plants in the city areas. That can go a long way in creating a winwin for both the wastewater sector and the CBG sector.

of more value-added materials polyhydroxy alkaloids which are essentially a buzzword for or a complete word for bioplastics.

It is a promising, feedstock that can be used for the production of bioplastics which are bio-made biodegradable How can sewage sludge be plastics. They're made from the basis of present and fu- biosource and they're degradture energy scenarios? able biologically as well. So Sewage sludge is a neces- the problems that we typicalsary evil. It is a byproduct of ly associate with fossil-based, wastewater treatment how- polyethylene-based plastics, ever; sludge management can be substituted with sewand disposal are huge costs age sludge and that offers a to the operators and several much higher economic value plants. There are several sto- than energy when it comes to ries in which the plants have sewage sludge. faced delays only because of difficulties in handling sludge, Having said that the technolbecause the supply chain ogy is progressing, it's not at was not in place, because the scale available yet, but a they didn't have the permits, lot more emphasis needs to and so on. So, these plants be given. Many companies were delayed because of the in India as well as abroad are sludge issues. But on the flip trying to have viable effective side with advancing technol- economic models using this ogies, sludge can effective- technology. And regarding ly become a good resource energy advances in biotechnot just for energy but also nology can help extract more as a raw material for more methane from sludge comvalue-added commodities. pared to what we do, what we Biogas can greatly help the can do currently before disenergy senario by extracting posal, and making the overall biogas from sewage sludge. sector more sustainable and But that is a low value/eco- converting this into a gold nomic proposition compared mine. It is a very case-specific tosewage sludge’s other op- scenario, but certainly, it even portunities. Again technology needs to be converted into is key here, technology envi- a gold mine and technology ronments are key. One of the plays a key role in that. areas in which sewage sludge can help is in the production

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 20

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Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 22

DryQUBE – Biogas Digestor

a solution to paddy straw burning

W

aste is a malaise that affects societies across the globe and India is no exception to this trend. One of the distinct features of the modern era has been a steady rise in the human population thus promoting growth in the development of the modern medicine system - antibiotics and massive vaccination drives.

The population boom was also driven by the growth in productive agriculture thereby leading to urbanization and industrialization. With the fossil fuel-based development, India and the subcontinent in general witnessed alarming levels of pollution especially the all-pervasive and persistent air pollution.

Although the problem of air

pollution in the northern plains of India is driven by a multitude of reasons such as geography, high-pressure air column during winters, and fossil fuels among others, there is a deeper neglected issue. Chandra Bhushan in his article in Times of India highlighted the ‘PM2.5 Inventory of India’ developed by iFOREST. According to the research done by iFOREST, around 80% of this PM2.5 comes from biomass-burning-related emissions, and not from automobiles or construction, as widely accepted and believed. Biomass burning is generally used for cooking and heating, especially during winters, and as a practice to get rid of the stubble to prepare the farm for temperate

crops or the next season cycle. Coupled with this, another neglected issue is the use of huge amounts of chemical fertilizers and pesticides for these staple crops. The dreadful effect of chemical fertilizer is known widely to cause the problem of eutrophication and leaching nitrate into groundwater causing nitrate pollution. This is expected to worsen given the growth of population and the demand for water and food. While there are dozens of articles and research highlighting the ill effects of air pollution especially the PM2.5 pollutant on health, employment, and loss of human capital; this article attempts to shed light on a unique patented technology – dryQUBE- Biogas Digestor

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 23 from Qube Renewables and uous operation. The QUBE Blue Planet Group.

Renewables team, with extensive collective experience Established in 2013, Qube Re- in commercial waste and ennewables, having an appetite ergy projects, is dedicated to for environmental sustain- designing and building in the ability and social equity has UK, collaborating globally to leaped forward in waste man- implement projects. One of agement with its customized, the magnum opus of Qube’s decentralized innovative ap- innovation is dryQUBE. proach to dealing with waste.

Seeing waste as a renewable In 2021, Qube Renewables resource, Qube Renewables became a part of Blue Planet invoked the idea of anaerobic Environment Solutions. Blue digestion of the cow and rep- Planet is a Singapore-headlicated it in a mechanical set- quartered multi-award-winup to produce biogas through ning pan-Asian company Anaerobic Digestion (AD). It driving regional sustainabilholds expertise in a niche, ity through technologically small-scale anaerobic diges- enhanced and IT-based endtion technology converting lo- to-end integrated solutions. cally occurring biodegradable The company provides waste waste streams into energy to management solutions rangprovide heat, power, and fer- ing from collection, and segtilizer. The company design, regation to transportation manufacture, install and re- and processing of all types of motely support the systems wastes from bulk generators. and work closely with local Blue Planet received the presoperatives to optimize, main- tigious Enterprise 50 Award tain and monitor the installed 2023 for creating sustainable units. environmental solutions.

The inception of the QUBE digester arose from a request by the UK Ministry of Defence to address food and sewage waste challenges at their forward operating bases while generating energy.

The design prioritized robustness, portability, and ease of operation and maintenance.

Since then, the initial QUBE digesters constructed based on these principles, have successfully processed waste and produced biogas through numerous hours of contin-

For biomass to grow into a sizeable sector, it is imperative to introduce similar initiatives for agricultural waste.

Empowering farmers with the know-how and finances to set up and run these biomass processing factories and linking the offtake with eager buyers through biomass banks will act as a catalyst for entrepreneurship in rural areas, and introduce the importance of consistency, accountability, and quality consciousness in these markets. The spawning

of such facilities will also lead to the creation of employment opportunities for the rural population. dryQUBE sits at the interface of Industrial Revolution 4.0, sustainability, and circular economy aiming to capitalize the dry high lignocellulosic crops such as rice and wheat straw; converting it into biogas and rich organic fertilizer.

One batch cycle of our dryQUBE1000 will process 130 tons of waste rice straw. There are 4 batches per year. (Units are flexible in size from 500m3 to 5000m3). On an annual basis, a single dryQUBE unit processes 520 tons of paddy straw producing 121150 m3 of biogas along with 590 tons of rich organic fertilizer.

By capturing the methane, which is otherwise burnt to smoke, the total carbon savings is 157 tons CO2 eq.

This biogas production translates into a power generation of 20kw per hour or can be used as clean cooking fuel for 83 households per day.

Moreover, the biogas can be upgraded to biomethane also known as bioCNG equivalent to 121 kgs per day. Qube Renewables has successfully demonstrated the capacity to leverage the paddy straw in collaboration with Haryana Agricultural University.

It directly complements the Government of India's commitment to UNFCCC COP 28 and the helps in attainment of policy imperatives –organic

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 24

fertilizer policy and fertilizer of agricultural residues but, communities, government subsidy expenditure reduc- also aligns with India's goals support, and strategic awaretion. for reducing greenhouse gas ness campaigns to ensure emissions and fostering ru- widespread adoption and Apart from the organic fertil- ral development. By provid- maximum impact. izer, renewable biogas energy, ing cleaner energy sources, and carbon savings; dryQUBE enhancing soil fertility, and complements the society in creating economic opportuthe attainment of UN SDGs nities, the dryQUBE emerges and is a step towards the as a promising contributor to broad vision of Atmanirbhar India's sustainable developBharat and inclusive and sus- ment initiatives. Successful tainable growth of India. implementation would require collaboration with local To conclude, the dryQUBE presents a transformative solution for India by addressing key challenges in agricultural waste management, renewable energy generation, Mark Clayton and sustainable agriculture.

CTO Through the conversion of Qube Renewables high lignocellulosic crops like rice and wheat straw into biogas and organic fertilizer, the dryQUBE contributes to waste reduction, renewable energy production, and the promotion of a circular economy. This innovative technolJo Clayton ogy not only helps manage CEO environmental issues associQube Renewables ated with the open burning

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 25

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 26

Revolutionizing Biogas Production:

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Compressor for Your Plant

F

ocus on energy transition has rightly and timely brought attention to the proliferation of multi-fuels within the clean energy mix. This has brought the much-needed focus on Biofuels as well. Major biofuels include biodiesel, ethanol, and renewable diesel. Biogas is also picking up in India with major interest from policymakers.

Within the ambit of biofuels, Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) is all set to take off at a large scale. In India, Major OMC and CGD companies have taken the plunge in CBG. Biogas is a mixture of gases primarily consisting of methane and carbon dioxide, along with traces of other gases. On an industrial level, specialized digesters are used to control and manage the process. The resulting biogas is classed as a renewable energy source.

However, biogas and renewable natural gas are different. Renewable Natural Gas is a type of biogas. It is a very pure type of biogas (up to 99% methane) which makes it suitable for applications that have typically relied on traditional natural gas such as: • Fueling vehicles – if biogas is cleaned and compressed, it can be used as fuel

• A replacement for natural gas – if biogas is cleaned and upgraded to natural gas standards, it can be injected into local gas companies’ (CGD) pipelines and used for commercial use, heating our homes, and even cooking.

• Electricity – very clean biogas can be converted directly into electricity by using fuel cells.

pression • Losses on account of CH4 (Methane) emissions to the atmosphere during compression • Minimum and maximum volume output (turndown) & respective inlet pressures • Flameproof integrity of the Compressors & PESO compliance • Selection of motors to optimize power consumption • Total cost of Ownership (TCO) • Longer service durations to ensure reliability of equipment with minimum downtime & availability of parts.

• Remote monitoring & predictive analysis to avoid breakdowns.

• Fully tested in factory and ready to install at site

After biogas is captured, it needs to be cleaned and compressed to become a useful energy source. At this point, you may be wondering how biogas production translates to the gas industry. Without gas compressors, blowers, chillers, etc., it would not be possible to produce biogas as the machines are used throughout the entire pro- To tackle the above chalduction process. lenges, Chicago Pneumatic Compressors, part of Atlas Common challenges to be Copco Group worldwide, has considered during the selec- developed technologically adtion of CBG Compressors for vanced biogas compressors, biogas upgradation plants: chillers, etc. When it comes to compressing the gas to a low • The variations in the feed- & high pressure that turns it stocks will involve gas genera- into a useful energy form. We, tion with different gas compo- at, Chicago Pneumatic Comsitions & impurities especially pressors, part of Atlas Copco H2S, CO2, etc.

Group worldwide, take a life - Variation in suction pres- cycle approach to innovation sure & volume and total cost of operation to - Effect of these impurities on save energy during gas comthe internal parts of the Com- pression. pressors • Cost of Investment & com- We supply low & high-pres-

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 27 & designed for 0% methane emissions (vent losses) during compression offering reliability of operations, lowest power & fuel consumption, and longer service life of internal components.

We Focus on the energy efficiency of our product

sure bio gas compressors for upgradation plants for PSA, Water/Chemical scrubbing, Membrane & VPSA applications, and for Grid Injection.

longer service life of internal components. Currently, most of the CBG industry is using low-cost – local reciprocating piston air compressors as an alternate option for this appliWe offer the following range cation which does not provide of biogas Compressors for the reliable operation, or longer above applications : life of the compressors.

• Oil-Free Piston Compressors • Reciprocating, Piston type & Screw Compressors : high pressure Compressors : - For low pressure Compression suitable to handle 50% CH4, 50% CO2 & traces of other gases with H2S. These compressors are specifically developed to handle biogas compositions enabling reliability of operations, lowest power consumption, and

- For high-pressure Compression suitable to handle 90%~98% CH4, 2%~10% CO2 & traces of other gases. These compressors are specifically developed for re-fueling station application & cascade filling @ 250 barg. These compressors are field-proven

Currently, most of the CBG industry is using low-cost reciprocating compressors which contribute up to 5% methane emissions (vent losses) of the compressor capacity. The greenhouse gas emissions are not allowed to be vented into the atmosphere considering the environmental impact and commercial loss to the CBG plant.

• Reciprocating Piston type CO2 Compressors for CBG plants separating & bottling the CO2 gas for commercial use since globally, venting of CO2 is not allowed.

Round-the-clock Service and Parts Assistance • With our decade-long experience in the CGD industry, we provide the best service sup-

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 28

port and availability of parts (OPEX) and reduce impact ensuring the lowest down- on the environment ensuring time for the equipment. sustainability and profitability for the biogas plant owners/ • Service support across In- operators. dia with teams employed at all major locations and stock The Bio-CNG policy is aimed points for the spare parts. at reducing global green• IOT-based remote moni- house gas emissions, supporttoring systems ensure mi- ing clean energy transition, as cro-level monitoring of the well as promote energy secuequipment thus avoiding rity through the use of susbreakdowns and operational tainable raw material/organic costs. waste, improving air quality, • Our Annual Maintenance supporting circular economy Contracts (AMCs) cover all practices and supporting the regular check-ups and unex- cause by providing our relipected issues to keep your able biogas compressors as equipment in optimum op- one solution to this. erating condition. We prioritize quality and reliability, For those seeking inpromoting long-term benedepth insights into fits through our focus on the Original Equipment Manu- "biogas and RNG (refacturer (OEM) and genuine parts.

As a Biogas Compressor manufacturer, we look to supply reliable equipment to reduce the Total cost of operations

newable natural gas) compression solutions," Chicago Pneumatic Compressors, a part of the Atlas Copco Group worldwide, invites industry stakeholders and enthusiasts to connect with our team of experts. Together, we aim to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable energy fu-

Sachin Sawant Business Head

-Gas Process and Pistons (CNG, Biogas & H2)

Atlas Copco Group India

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 29

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 30

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 31

Latest Desulphurisation Methods:

Using Iron Hydroxide-based technology

M

thus providing biogas plant Applications operators with the ideal solution to bind H2S. H2S-removal from • biogas FerroSorp® S – a high-quality • cooking gas product Made in Germany – • syngas and pyrolysis gas is a pelletized and highly ef- • landfill gas fective media based on iron • natural gas, fracking, CNG, hydroxide. For over 20 years RNG FerroSorp® S has proven itself • sewage gas to be the best product for the • CO2-gas job, even under some of the • industrial exhaust gas (i.e. harshest and most-challeng- paper industry, ebonite proing gas conditions. The result duction and oil-mill applicais that each year more and tions) more sites around the globe opt for using FerroSorp® S as The Process their solution to the H2S probGas containing H2S is passed lem. Ferrosorp Sd is 25 - 30% through a filter vessel filled more economical than imwith FerroSorp® S media pelpregnated activated carbon, lets. Two chemical reactions Fortunately, our scientists eniron oxide, and iron fillings. occur: First, H2S and iron hygineered FerroSorp® S media Ferrosorp Sd guarantee condroxide react to form solid pellets to overcome even the sistent 0 PPM H2S. iron sulphide. Second – either most difficult H2S problems, any plants around the globe are utilizing organic materials such as animal manure, food waste, maize, grass, wheat, and more to produce biogas. The biogas plants, if operated efficiently and predictably, are perfectly suited to close ecological cycles, to reduce the carbon footprint, increase resource efficiency, and add value to local economies. However, to achieve that, there is a strong demand for a robust, high-quality, versatile, effective and economical solution to remove H₂S in the best possible way.

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 32 simultaneously or in a paral- Case Study 1 (2nd largest WWTP in Asia) lel vessel – oxygen converts WWTP gas, Singapore (Changi Airport) the pellets back into iron hydroxide in a process called reGas flow 2,400–4,500 m3/h generation. Elemental sulfur (1,410 –2,650 scfm) is formed and accumulates H2S-concentration 1,500 –3,000 ppm within the pores of the media Relative humidity 70 % pellets, which results in high 2 (belowground) loading rates, long media life- #of vessels Parallel cycles, and minimized clump- Arrangement ing.

Dimensions(diameter x filling 3.7 m x 7 m (12 ftx 23 ft) height) Advantages Filling volume per vessel 73 m.

FerroSorp® Sd2 -4 mm • Well proven, non-hazardous Used product product Advantages compared to the -Much lower pressure drop: 140 mbar (2 psi) vs. 345 mbar •Annual sales volume of over previously used product (5 psi) 12000 MT -Maintains 0 ppm H2S at the • 20+ years of experience outlet much longer • Low removal costs for H2S Case Study 2: CBG Plant, Italy compared to other leading Gas flow 1,250 m³/h (736 scfm) technologies H2S-concentration 500 – 1,000 ppm • High loading capacities due Relative humidity 70 %, (25 % at the beginning) to selective desulphurisation # of vessels 5 • Fast reaction, achieves 0 Arrangement Parallel ppm H2S at the outlet Dimensions (diameter x 3.7 m x 7 m (12 ftx 23 ft) filling height) 2.2 m x 6.5 m (7.2 ft x 21.3 ft) • Easy handling Filling volume per vessel 25 m³ • Superior performance in Used product FerroSorp® 2 - 4 mm gases without air/O2 Advantages compared to the • Possible use as fertilizer* previously used product - In use since start-up After optimization: About Us - Longer operating time - Easier & faster change-out Bharti Waters Pvt. Ltd. is the exclusive India distributor of Hego Biotec GmbH (Germany) for FerroSorp S, H2S Removal media from various biogas plants and industries.

FerroSorp Sd is used globally in over 2500 plants and has a global footprint in over 60 Shantanu Aggarwal countries. Ferrosorp Sd has Director (Marketing) an annual sales volume of Bharti Waters Pvt. Ltd. 12,000 MT for H2S removal.

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 33

Mandatory use of biogas by fertiliser units likely

New scheme proposed by industry similar to existing one for oil companies

The Indian Biogas Association (IBA) has suggested that the government formulate a scheme similar to Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) being implemented in the oil and gas sector, for fertilizers, to ensure guaranteed purchase of fermented organic manure (FOM) by fertilizer marketing companies. This, it said, would help in strengthening the financial viability of biogas plants.

“Government officials have agreed to our proposal in principle. But they noted that given the Budget constraints, such a scheme can be implemented only in a phased manner,” said Gaurav Kedia, Chairman of the Indian Bio-

gas Association. “We are told that the government is considering this.. it might roll out a scheme in next fiscal year itself.”

The association has suggested an outlay of Rs 1.78 trillion for the scheme over several years. “Similar to the existing programme like SATAT that guarantees gas offtake

by Oil marketing companies (OMCs), this scheme will also propose to secure FOM offtake, thereby stabilizing revenue streams and strengthening the financial viability of biogas projects,” Kedia said. The SATAT scheme is designed to extract economic value from bio-mass waste in the form of Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) and bio-manure.

The scheme will provide investors with increased clarity and confidence in the overall biogas plant business model which so far has failed to gain the expected traction.

The idea to bring PM PRANAM, Bhartiya Prakratik Kheti, and the support through small and marginal farmers under one umbrella, Kedia said.

Biogas plants convert organic waste including animal waste, crop residue, municipal waste etc into clean biogas through anaerobic digestion to produce clean energy. In the process, FOM is produced as a waste which can be utilised in agriculture.

“A single window clearance

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 34 system will give a lot of push to the sector,” Kedia said. The IBA expects 30-40 CBG plants to be commissioned by the end of the current financial year and another 100 by December 2024. “In the next 2030 years we should be able to reach 60 million metric tonne of CBG potential per annum,” Kedia said. This is, provided the increased impetus to the sector by the government.

As per the official data, the active number of Letter of Intent presently is 2,176 against the total number of 4,100 LoIs issued when the scheme was announced.

an alternative source of energy to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels for quite some time now. It has also created the Global Biofuel Alliance in its latest G20 summit and has now mandated 5% blending Additionally, to be able to re- of CBG with compressed natalize the target of 5,000 CBG ural gas and piped natural gas plants at least by 2030, will by FY29. require an investment of Rs 1.75 trillion, 3-4% of which “Next year they will announce will be attributed to the for- the entire framework for the eign direct investment, ac- Global Biofuel Alliance and The government has intend- cording to industry estimates. are already consulting differed to set up 5,000 CBG plants ent organizations for this,” for production of 15 million The government has been said Kedia. “There might be metric tonne of CBG per an- working towards the promo- a little more emphasis on the num by 2023-24 under the tion of compressed biogas as liquid side to start with.”

SATAT scheme. However, the country has only been able to Reprinted from set up some 48 CBG plants so far.

To download the full article, Please scan the QR code

Written By: Arunima Bharadwaj Dated: December 29, 2023

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 35

BIOGAS ANALYSERS

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Actuation of solenoid valve for closure, as per user settable limits Alarm Generation on deviation from standard composition with message to concerned personnel / control room Tamper Proof Password protection GERMA N PRODU CTS Ex Proof Models also available

Biogas measurement : CH4, CO2, H2S, O2 Calculated GCV, NCV, MMBTU values Gas Leak detection probe for CH4 (%LEL) Suitable for cascade testing Light weight : 750gms Built-in condensate separator & dust filter for extra protection Simultaneous measurement of Biogas & Flow rate (optional) Internal data storage for about 20,000 readings.

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Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 36

Biogas upgradation technologies at a glance

A

developing economy like India knows the importance of energy as it is the largest resource that will shape India’s future in the coming years. Industry’s strong commitment will lead to more hunger and effort to increase the production of renewable fuels and energies which will make India clean and self-sufficient to a greater extent.

CBG and Hydrogen are the fuels of the future and the talk of the town in the recent past for all good reasons around the globe. Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy and any industry that connects to the ground always has a larger impact on national interest. Doubling farmer's income is one of the prime objectives of authorities and most of the national

programs have this connec- These CBG plants will then be tion which is the country’s all set to transform into destrength. centralized hydrogen generation stations which will fuel Biogas to CBG mission was our energy and transportastarted with this connect in tion future in years to come. the background in 2018 and CBG to green hydrogen will going strong day by day. CBG be soon a real game changer is one of the important bio- in the country’s economy. Affuels in focus after Ethanol ter the generation of the bioin India at the present time. gas from various available raw Industry is moving very pos- materials, it becomes very itively to make 5000 CBG important to purify it to meet plant a reality. To make this current industrial as well as happen the whole industry is vehicle transport fuel requireplaying major roles whether ments which is equivalent to it is technology, engineering, bio CNG/CBG. infrastructure, OMC’s, financial institutions, or agricul- The following technologies ture teams with a vision for are available presently for Bio bio-fertilizers. gas upgradation into bio CNG /CBG. A few other technoloThe CBG has methane as a gies are under development major component and it can and will be soon in practice be readily converted to hy- based on the application and drogen or can be used direct- available resources as well ly for automobile transport. as available utilities. One can

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 37 Comparative chart for different technologies for biogas upgradation for CBG Particulars

PSA / MPSA / VSA / VPSA

Amine

HP Water

Membrane

Cryogenic

PCC

CH4%

96+

99+

96+

99+ *

99+

98+

CH4 Loss %

≤3

≤0.1

3+

≤0.3 *

≤0.1

≤1%

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Consistent Slight purity variation output H2S handing

Needs Pre- No pre-treat- Needs Pre- Needs Pre- Needs Pre- Needs Pretreatment ment reqd. treatment treatment treatment treatment

By-Product Can be recov- Highly suit- Contaminatered able for re- ed with CH4, Capture covery O2 & N2 - CO2

Suitable

Suitable

NA

Partial Load range %

50-100

50-120

60-110

50-100

50-115

50-115

Plant up-time

90%

>95%

90%

>95%

>95%

>95%

0.24

0.3+

0.6+

NA

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

No

Yes

No

Yes- will be set up on Opex model

Medium++

Medium

High

High

NA

O v e r a l l Low- But Re- M e d i u m placement : Subject Opex

Medium

Medium+ ; But Replacement cost of membrane high

High

NA

Technology status

Established

New – few units in operation

New

Established in other application

No (due to Yes* (only if CH4 slip loss) multi stage is opted)

Yes

Yes

0.18 0.1 Energy ConsumptionkWh/m3 of Raw Gas Nil 2 Steam Kg/ m3 of Raw Gas Any Propri- No -May re- No (May refor quire for etary item quire some offer- some offerings ings)

Capital Cost

Low

cost of desic- to Cost of cant high Steam; Waste heat can be used for AD heating Established

Meets Emis- No (due to sion norms CH4 slip loss)

Established

Yes

By-Product Yes, With Ad- Yes, With Ad- No, Due to Yes, With Ad- Liquid CO2 P r e c i p a t e d produced Calc CO3 proProduced ditional Capex ditional Capex contaminate ditional Capex by product

duced

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 38 take a call on which technology will be more suitable for a particular case.

2. In some places, low-cost steam or surplus steam is available, in this case, Amine scrubbing is the most ecoTo meet the requirement nomical & effective process of IS – 16087, the following for Biogas upgradation. options/possibilities may be explored; 3. Capacity wise selection

VPSA are selected

Note: There are no one-fit solution but all above tabulated options like losses/purity / carbon capture opportunities put together will be the deciding factor to arrive on a final conclusion. It can’t be possi1. H2S levels selection criteri- a) 2 to 5 TPD of CBG Produc- ble to tabulate data as results tion : PSA/ MPSA / VPSA is will vary case to case & can’t on most suitable be attributed to any particua) If H2S content is less than lar case. All the above figures 5000 ppm (0.5%); non-regen- b) 10 TPD of CBG Production are calculative as indicative eration NaOH scrubbing is se- : MPSA / PWS / Amine are figures only. lected. preferred c) 15 to 20 TPD of CBG Prob) If H2S content is greater duction: Amine / Membrane / than 5000 ppm (0.5%); regenerative NaOH scrubbing or Iron chelate may be selected. c) If H2S content is greater than 25000 ppm (2.5%); Amine or Biological scrubbing may be selected

M L Dhiman Managing Director GASKON Engineers Pvt. Ltd.

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 39

CNG / CBG

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 40

Understanding Biogas Potential: The Importance of Batch Tests

T

Bio Process Instruments – AMPTS ®III

he success of any biogas project hinges on determining the biogas potential of its feedstocks.

This potential represents the maximum amount of biogas that can be produced from a given substrate, serving as a crucial benchmark for evaluating the performance of biogas generation technologies. While various analytical methods exist, such as measuring total solids and chemical composition, they lack the directness of batch tests.

gained, enabling process opti- digester operations, facilitatmization for improved biogas ing accurate comparison. production.

• Test equipment and proFactors influencing batch cedures: Standardized retest results quirements and protocols for various aspects like the Several factors significantly testing apparatus, reference impact the reliability and acsystem, blank test, and inoccuracy of batch test results, ulum-to-substrate ratio are requiring careful considercrucial for ensuring consisation: tency and reducing variability • Inoculum: The inoculum's between test results.

effectiveness in degrading the specific feedstock is crucial.

Factors like source, sampling method, pre-treatment, storage procedures, and adaptaWhy batch tests matter tion play a crucial role. Only Batch tests, a type of biologi- a monitored adaptation procal test system, offer a direct cess can accurately assess the measurement of biogas yield inoculum's suitability. under controlled anaerobic digestion conditions. This pro- • Sample processing: Ensurvides a more accurate estima- ing representative samples is tion of biogas potential com- essential for reliable results. pared to indirect methods. Minimizing pre-treatment Additionally, valuable insights helps maintain conditions into degradation kinetics are similar to real-world biogas

• Test completion criteria: Determining the appropriate endpoint for the test is critical. Evaluation should account for gas production from the inoculum, water vapor subtraction, and gas volume standardization at standard temperature and pressure.

Many assessments utilize a model-based estimation of biogas potential assuming an indefinite retention time for greater accuracy.

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 41 Limitations and future directions To overcome the limitations like "Limited Representation" and "Idealized Condition", researchers and practitioners are exploring additional analytical methods: • Biochemical Analysis: Examining the biochemical composition of feedstocks can provide deeper insights into their degradation potential.

• Regression Analysis: Utilizing statistical techniques like regression analysis can help identify key factors influencing biogas potential and develop predictive models.

• Continuous Process Testing: Conducting continuous testing under conditions closer to full-scale operations can provide more representative results.

Understanding the impact of testing variables in batch tests

accurate comparisons. Many evaluations utilize models, assuming indefinite retention time for more precise biogas Several key aspects of batch potential estimations. tests significantly impact the results and require careful In-house Laboratory Testing: Establishing an in-house labconsideration: oratory offers several advanTest Equipment: While the tages: impact of specific testing equipment hasn't been com- • Reduced Errors: Performprehensively investigated, ing tests internally allows for maintaining standard require- greater control over procements for consistency and dures and minimizes potenminimizing variability is cru- tial errors. cial.

• Improved Consistency: InReference System: Standard house testing ensures conprotocols are essential for sistent protocols and condiaccurately evaluating the ref- tions, leading to more reliable erence system, ensuring re- results. liable comparison across dif• Variability Identification: ferent tests.

By comparing in-house results Blank Test: Conducting blank with external labs, variability tests helps determine back- among different labs can be ground gas production from identified and addressed. the inoculum and other • Enhanced Monitoring: Insources, allowing for accurate house testing facilitates regcorrection and interpretation ular monitoring of digester of results. health and performance, enInoculum-to-Substrate Ra- abling proactive adjustments tio: The ratio of inoculum to and optimization.

• Inter-laboratory Collaboration: Participating in inter-laboratory tests and sharing results can help improve the overall accuracy and reli- substrate significantly influences the degradation proability of batch testing. cess and biogas production.

In conclusion, batch tests Standard guidelines and optiremain a vital tool for ana- mized ratios for specific feedlyzing biogas potential, of- stocks are essential for relifering valuable insights into able results. feedstock performance and guiding process optimization. Test Completion Criteria: DeHowever, acknowledging fining clear criteria for test their limitations and explor- completion is crucial. This ining complementary analytical cludes accounting for gas promethods is crucial for advanc- duction from the inoculum, ing the accuracy and effec- subtracting water vapor, and tiveness of biogas technology. standardizing gas volume for

By understanding and meticulously managing these key variables, researchers and practitioners can ensure the accuracy and reliability of batch tests, leading to more effective analysis of biogas potential and improved biogas technology development.

Scaling up: from batch tests to full-scale biogas digesters While batch tests offer valuable insights into biogas po-

Biogas Magazine | Edition 26 | 42 tential under controlled conditions, scaling up results to full-scale digesters requires careful consideration due to inherent differences in size, processes, and measurement accuracy.

Key Differences • Volume: Batch tests typically range from 0.1 to 15 L, while full-scale digesters can exceed 2000 m3. This significant scale difference can impact mixing, heat transfer, and overall biogas production.

• Process Conditions: Fullscale digesters operate with different organic loading rates and hydraulic retention times compared to batch tests, leading to variations in biogas yield.

• Mixing Conditions: Mixing within full-scale digesters is more complex and less controlled compared to ideal mixing in batch tests. This can lead to dead zones and uneven feedstock degradation, affecting biogas production.

laboratory results.

ability of batch tests.

Bridging the gap

• Biochemical and Regression Analysis: Combining Additionally Inoculum adap- batch tests with biochemical tion, data availability and analysis and regression techuncertainty, lack of standard niques can enhance precision transfer methods are few of and provide deeper insights the challenges and limita- into feedstock degradation. tions. Several approaches help bridge the gap between • Inter-laboratory Collabobatch test results and full- ration: Increased collaborascale performance: tion and coordinated testing between laboratories can im•Residual Biogas Potential: prove data quality and reduce Analysing the residual biogas variability. potential in digestate provides valuable insights into • Continuous Process Testprocess efficiency. Studies ing: Conducting continuous have shown residual methane testing under conditions clospotentials ranging from 1.3% er to full-scale operations can to 10% of the daily produced provide more representative volume, indicating potential results. for further optimization.

• Chemical Analysis Integra• Correlation with Retention tion: Incorporating chemical Time: A clear correlation ex- analysis, such as nutrient asists between retention time sessment, alongside batch and biogas yield. However, tests can offer additional inthis relationship is influenced sights into potential biogas by various factors, leading to production. variability in results.

By understanding the lim• Model-based Estimations: itations of and differences Utilizing models that consider between batch tests and factors like indefinite reten- full-scale digesters, biogas tion time and substrate char- researchers and practitioners acteristics can improve the can work towards developing accuracy of biogas potential improved methods for scaling estimations from batch tests. up results and optimizing biogas production in real- world Future directions settings.

• Feedstock Conditioning and Mixtures: Full-scale operations often involve a variety of feedstocks and conditioning processes, introducing additional variability compared to controlled batch • Improved Protocols: Revistest setups. ing protocols and addressing • Measurement Accuracy: variability sources can imMeasurement methods like prove the accuracy and reliweighing and gas quantity can be less precise in largeSrinivas Kasulla scale operations, introducing Director further discrepancies with Arka BRENStech Pvt. Ltd.

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