Evaluation of the feasibility of photosynthetic biogas upgrading: Simulation of a large-scale system. (15th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meier, Leslie; Martínez, Carlos; Vílchez, Carlos; Bernard, Olivier; Jeison, David
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 189(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-12-15
• Subjects: Biogas -- Microalgae -- Upgrading -- Modelling; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.116313
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: The use of microalgae cultures has been proposed as an innovative method to remove CO2 from biogas. However, the design of a large-scale installations requires the identification of key operational parameters and the determination of the maximum treatment capacity of the system. The aim of this work is to advance in that direction, using mathematical modelling. A model was developed, considering a system composed of a bubble column connected with an open photobioreactor. Simulations were carried out to evaluate the operation of a potential large-scale system. Results show that biogas upgrading would be feasible at large scales. At a biogas treatment capacity of 0.12 m 3 d −1 per m 3 reactor, an upgraded biogas with less than 3 and 1% of CO2 and O2, respectively, could be obtained. Under such condition, more that 80% of the inorganic carbon from the biogas would be transformed into biomass. Considering the low volumetric capacity of the system, its feasibility is expected to be determined by the biomass economic value. Highlights: Studied system can provide an upgraded biogas quality fulfilling most regulations. Imposed conditions will define fate of CO2 : desorption to atmosphere or fixation. System has lower biogas treatment capacity per m 2 than traditional technologies. Feasibility will be determined by application of an industrial ecology approach.