Potential of Biogas Power Plant Produced by Anaerobic Digestion of Biodegradable Materials

• Main Authors: Nur Shuhada Ghazali, Md Azree Othuman Mydin, Nik Fuaad Nik Abllah
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Eftimie Murgu University of Resita 2013-09-01
• Series: Analele Universităţii "Eftimie Murgu" Reşiţa: Fascicola I, Inginerie
• Subjects: biogas; anaerobic digestion; waste management; sewage; municipal waste
• Online Access: http://anale-ing.uem.ro/2013/216.pdf
• ISSN: 1453-7397; 1453-7397

Biogas typically refers to a gas produced by the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. It is a renewable energy source, like solar and wind energy. Furthermore, biogas can be produced from regionally available raw materials and recycled waste and is environmentally friendly and CO2 neutral. Biogas is produced by the anaerobic digestion or fermentation of biodegradable materials such as manure, sewage, municipal waste, green waste, plant material, and crops. Biogas comprises primarily methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) and may have small amounts of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), moisture and siloxanes. The gases methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide (CO) can be combusted or oxidized with oxygen. This energy release allows biogas to be used as a fuel. Biogas can be compressed, much like natural gas, and used to power motor vehicles. Biogas is a renewable fuel so it qualifies for renewable energy subsidies in some parts of the world. Biogas can also be cleaned and upgraded to natural gas standards when it becomes bio methane. This paper will discuss the potential of biogas in order to provide a clean, easily controlled source of renewable energy from organic waste materials for a small labour input, replacing firewood or fossil fuels which are becoming more expensive as supply falls behind demand.