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Li M, Zhao X, Wu K, Liang C, Liu J, Yang H, Wang C, Yang B, Yin F, Zhang W. Spiral-Pipe Gas Anaerobic Digester. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:23202-23208. [PMID: 38854509 PMCID: PMC11154718 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The reduction of carbon dioxide to methane using hydrogen is an important process in biogas production. However, designing gas anaerobic digesters (GADs) based on this reaction presents several challenges. In this study, we developed an innovative spiral-pipe gas anaerobic digester (SGAD) to increase the displacement distance between the bubbles, thus prolonging the gas retention time and facilitating the reduction of CO2 to CH4 via H2. The process was successfully demonstrated by using a CO2/H2 ratio of 1:3 and a gas-feeding rate of 3.9 L Lr -1 d-1. During the experiment, more than 98% of the CO2 and 96% of the H2 were consumed, resulting in biogas containing ca. 86-96% CH4. Additionally, we applied our proposed evaluation methodology for assessing GAD performance to evaluate the performance of the SGAD. This methodology serves as a reference for evaluating and designing GAD systems. The innovative design of the SGAD and the corresponding evaluation methodology offer new insights into the design of reactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghao Li
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Xingling Zhao
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Kai Wu
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Chengyue Liang
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Jing Liu
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Hong Yang
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Changmei Wang
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Bin Yang
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Yunyu Technology Co., LTD, Kunming 650117, PR China
| | - Fang Yin
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Yunyu Technology Co., LTD, Kunming 650117, PR China
| | - Wudi Zhang
- Yunnan
Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Research Center of Biogas Technology and Engineering, School of Energy
and Environment Science, Yunnan Normal University, 768 Jvxian Street, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
- Yunnan
Yunyu Technology Co., LTD, Kunming 650117, PR China
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2
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Rao Y, Lin TY, Ling F, He Z. Biological upgrading of biogas assisted with membrane supplied hydrogen gas in a three-phase upflow reactor. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 394:130260. [PMID: 38151211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.130260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Biogas upgrading via CO2 conversion to CH4 is an emerging technology for renewable natural gas production and carbon management, but its development is limited by the low H2 gas to liquid phase transfer. Herein, an innovative biogas upgrading system employing a three-phase design was studied for CO2 conversion with H2 supply via gas-permeable membrane. The system produced biogas consisted of 74.1 ± 7.1 % CH4 and 25.9 ± 7.1 % CO2 with intermittent injection of H2. When H2 supply was continuous, the CH4 content increased to 91.6 ± 2.2 % at a H2:CO2 ratio of 4.4. Although a higher ratio of 5.5 could result in a higher CH4 percentage of 95.2 ± 2.5 %, biogas production rate started to decrease. The removal efficiency of organic contents remained above 90 % throughout the experiment. Microbial community analysis corroborated the findings, showing that hydrogenotrophic Methanobacteriaceae was more prevalent in the biofilm (71.9 %) compared to that in anaerobic digestion (15.8 %) and effluent (14.1 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Rao
- Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Tzu-Yu Lin
- Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Fangqiong Ling
- Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Zhen He
- Department of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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3
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Thapa A, Jo H, Han U, Cho SK. Ex-situ biomethanation for CO 2 valorization: State of the art, recent advances, challenges, and future prospective. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 68:108218. [PMID: 37481094 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Ex-situ biomethanation is an emerging technology that facilitates the use of surplus renewable electricity and valorizes carbon dioxide (CO2) for biomethane production by hydrogenotrophic methanogens. This review offers an up-to-date overview of the current state of ex-situ biomethanation and thoroughly analyzes key operational parameters affecting hydrogen (H2) gas-liquid mass transfer and biomethanation performance, along with an in-depth discussion of the technical challenges. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review article to discuss microbial community structure in liquid and biofilm phases and their responses after exposure to H2 starvation during ex-situ biomethanation. In addition, future research in areas such as reactor configuration and optimization of operational parameters for improving the H2 mass transfer rate, inhibiting opportunistic homoacetogens, integration of membrane technology, and use of conductive packing material is recommended to overcome challenges and improve the efficiency of ex-situ biomethanation. Furthermore, this review presents a techno-economic analysis for the future development and facilitation of industrial implementation. The insights presented in this review will offer useful information to identify state-of-the-art research trends and realize the full potential of this emerging technology for CO2 utilization and biomethane production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Thapa
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, 32 Dongguk-ro, IIsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongmok Jo
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, 32 Dongguk-ro, IIsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Uijeong Han
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, 32 Dongguk-ro, IIsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Si-Kyung Cho
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, 32 Dongguk-ro, IIsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Feickert Fenske C, Strübing D, Koch K. Biological methanation in trickle bed reactors - a critical review. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023:129383. [PMID: 37355141 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Biological methanation of H2 and CO2 in trickle bed reactors is a promising energy conversion and storage approach that can support the energy transition towards a renewable-based system. Research in trickle bed reactor design and operation has significantly increased in recent years, but most studies were performed at laboratory scale and conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the trickle bed reactor concept and current developments to support the decision-making process for future projects. In particular, the key design and operational parameters, such as trickling or nutrient provision, are presented, introducing the most recent advances. Furthermore, reactor operation, including the inoculation, long-term and dynamic operation, is described. To better assess the reactor upscaling, several parameters that enable reactor comparison are discussed. On the basis of this review, suitable operational strategies and further research needs were identified that will improve the overall trickle bed reactor performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Feickert Fenske
- Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 3, D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Dietmar Strübing
- Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 3, D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Konrad Koch
- Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 3, D-85748 Garching, Germany.
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Tauber J, Möstl D, Vierheilig J, Saracevic E, Svardal K, Krampe J. Biological Methanation in an Anaerobic Biofilm Reactor—Trace Element and Mineral Requirements for Stable Operation. Processes (Basel) 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/pr11041013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological methanation of carbon dioxide using hydrogen makes it possible to improve the methane and energy content of biogas produced from sewage sludge and organic residuals and to reach the requirements for injection into the natural gas network. Biofilm reactors, so-called trickling bed reactors, offer a relatively simple, energy-efficient, and reliable technique for upgrading biogas via ex-situ methanation. A mesophilic lab-scale biofilm reactor was operated continuously for nine months to upgrade biogas from anaerobic sewage sludge digestion to a methane content >98%. To supply essential trace elements to the biomass, a stock solution was fed to the trickling liquid. Besides standard parameters and gas quality, concentrations of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Ni, and Fe were measured in the liquid and the biofilm using ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry) to examine the biofilms load-dependent uptake rate and to calculate quantities required for a stable operation. Additionally, microbial community dynamics were monitored by amplicon sequencing (16S rRNA gene). It was found that all investigated (trace) elements are taken up by the biomass. Some are absorbed depending on the load, others independently of it. For example, a biomass-specific uptake of 0.13 mg·g−1·d−1 for Ni and up to 50 mg·g−1·d−1 for Mg were measured.
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6
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Ngu V, Fletcher DF, Kavanagh JM, Rafrafi Y, Dumas C, Morchain J, Cockx A. H2 mass transfer – a key factor for efficient biological methanation: Comparison between pilot-scale experimental data, 1D and CFD models. Chem Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2022.118382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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7
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Muñoz-Páez KM, Buitrón G. Bioconversion of H 2 and CO 2 from dark fermentation to methane: Effect of operating conditions on methane concentration. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 308:136305. [PMID: 36064009 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The main goal of this study was to assess the methane production in a biotrickling filter (BTF) using a synthetic gas mixture (H2/CO2: 60/40), evaluating the effect of the empty bed gas residence time (EBRT), pH, and temperature. The BTF was inoculated with acclimated granular anaerobic sludge. Three EBRT were tested: 11.6, 5.8, and 2.9 h. The decrease in EBRT (from 11.6 to 5.8 h) increased 1.3-fold the methane content (69 ± 3%) with H2 and CO2 removals of 100% and 24 ± 6%, respectively. The following reduction to 2.9 h showed no effect on CH4 content. The increment of the pH had no significant effect; however, the highest CH4 percentage (74%) was observed at a pH of 8.5. The system showed flexibility to adapt to changes in temperature without drastically diminishing CH4 concentration. In these stages, the principal hydrogenotrophic archaea detected was Methanobacterium flexile. Soluble microbial products such as butanol, caproate, and iso-valerate were detected in all the operating stages. This study demonstrates the potential of methane generation from a dark fermentation gaseous effluent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla M Muñoz-Páez
- CONACYT - Instituto de Ingeniería, Unidad Académica Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Germán Buitrón
- Laboratory for Research on Advanced Processes for Water Treatment, Unidad Académica Juriquilla, Instituto de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd. Juriquilla 3001, 76230, Querétaro, Mexico.
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8
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Liu C, Luo J, Dong H, Zhao Z, Xu C, Abuelgasim S, Abdalazeez A, Wang W, Chen D, Tang Q. Hydrogen-rich syngas production form biomass char by chemical looping gasification with Fe/Ca-based oxygen carrier. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.121912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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9
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Potential for Biomethanisation of CO2 from Anaerobic Digestion of Organic Wastes in the United Kingdom. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10061202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The United Kingdom (UK) has a decarbonisation strategy that includes energy from both hydrogen and biomethane. The latter comes from the growing anaerobic digestion (AD) market, which in 2020 produced 23.3 TWh of energy in the form of biogas. According to the strategy, this must be upgraded to biomethane by removal of carbon dioxide (CO2): a goal that could also be fulfilled through CO2 biomethanisation, alleviating the need for carbon capture and storage. Results are presented from a survey of publicly available datasets coupled with modelling to identify potential scale and knowledge gaps. Literature data were used to estimate maximum biomethane concentrations by feedstock type: these ranged from 79% for food wastes to 93% for livestock manures. Data from various government sources were used to estimate the overall potential for CO2 biomethanisation with current AD infrastructure. Values for the uplift in biomethane production ranged from 57% to 61%, but the need for more consistent data collection methodologies was highlighted. On average, however, if CO2 biomethanisation was applied in all currently operating UK AD plants an energy production uplift of 12,954 GWh could be achieved based on 2020 figures. This is sufficient to justify the inclusion of CO2 biomethanisation in decarbonisation strategies, in the UK and worldwide.
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10
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Antukh T, Lee I, Joo S, Kim H. Hydrogenotrophs-Based Biological Biogas Upgrading Technologies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:833482. [PMID: 35557857 PMCID: PMC9085624 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.833482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Biogas produced from anaerobic digestion consists of 55–65% methane and 35–45% carbon dioxide, with an additional 1–2% of other impurities. To utilize biogas as renewable energy, a process called biogas upgrading is required. Biogas upgrading is the separation of methane from carbon dioxide and other impurities, and is performed to increase CH4 content to more than 95%, allowing heat to be secured at the natural gas level. The profitability of existing biogas technologies strongly depends on operation and maintenance costs. Conventional biogas upgrading technologies have many issues, such as unstable high-purity methane generation and high energy consumption. However, hydrogenotrophs-based biological biogas upgrading offers an advantage of converting CO2 in biogas directly into CH4 without additional processes. Thus, biological upgrading through applying hydrogenotrophic methanogens for the biological conversion of CO2 and H2 to CH4 receives growing attention due to its simplicity and high technological potential. This review analyzes the recent advance of hydrogenotrophs-based biomethanation processes, addressing their potential impact on public acceptance of biogas plants for the promotion of biogas production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sunghee Joo
- *Correspondence: Sunghee Joo, ; Hyunook Kim,
| | - Hyunook Kim
- *Correspondence: Sunghee Joo, ; Hyunook Kim,
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11
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Spatio-temporal 1D gas–liquid model for biological methanation in lab scale and industrial bubble column. Chem Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2022.117478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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12
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de Jonge N, Poulsen JS, Vechi NT, Kofoed MVW, Nielsen JL. Wood-Ljungdahl pathway utilisation during in situ H 2 biomethanation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:151254. [PMID: 34710425 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biogas production from organic waste is a waste-to-energy technology with the potential to contribute significantly to sustainable energy production. Upgrading of biogas using in situ biomethanation with hydrogen has the potential for surplus electricity storage, and delivery of biogas with a methane content of >90%, allowing for easier integration into the natural gas grid, as well as conversion to other products. Microbial communities in biomethanation reactors undergo changes, however, these changes are largely unexplored. In the present study, metagenome-resolved protein stable isotope probing (Protein-SIP) was applied to laboratory scale batch incubations operating under anaerobic digestion, and (pre-adapted) biomethanation conditions, fed with 13C-labelled bicarbonate, in order to gain insight into the microbial activities during CO2-reduction. The strongest and most microbially diverse isotopic incorporation was observed in the pre-adapted biomethanation incubation. Furthermore, divergent incorporation of 13C-labelled bicarbonate was also observed in the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, with the anaerobic digester incubations primarily showing labelled proteins in the peripheral pathways leading toward production of energy and biomass. The pre-adapted biomethanation incubations consumed H2 and CO2, but did not convert it to CH4, suggesting the production of acetate in these incubations, which was supported by heavy labelling of key enzymes in the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. Twelve (ten high quality) metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) coding for 13C-incorporated proteins were extracted from the metagenome, eight of which contained one or more of the key genes in the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, one of which was affiliated to Methanosarcina. Together, the findings in the present study deepen our knowledge surrounding microbial communities in biomethanation systems, and contribute to the development of better strategies for implementation of biogas upgrading and microbial management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadieh de Jonge
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, DK-9220 Aalborg E, Denmark.
| | - Jan Struckmann Poulsen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, DK-9220 Aalborg E, Denmark.
| | - Nathalia Thygesen Vechi
- Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, Hangøvej 2, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | | | - Jeppe Lund Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, DK-9220 Aalborg E, Denmark.
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13
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Enhanced ex-situ biomethanation of hydrogen and carbon dioxide in a trickling filter bed reactor. Biochem Eng J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2021.108311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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Braga Nan L, Trably E, Santa-Catalina G, Bernet N, Delgenes JP, Escudie R. Microbial community redundance in biomethanation systems lead to faster recovery of methane production rates after starvation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 804:150073. [PMID: 34517312 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The Power-to-Gas concept corresponds to the use of the electric energy surplus to produce H2 by water electrolysis, that can be further converted to methane by biomethanation. However, the fluctuant production of renewable energy sources can lead to discontinuous H2 injections into the reactors, that may interfere with the adaptation of the microbial community to high H2 partial pressures. In this study, the response of the microbial community to H2 and organic feed starvation was evaluated in in-situ and ex-situ biomethanation. The fed-batch reactors were fed with acetate or glucose and H2, and one or four weeks of starvation periods were investigated. Methane productivity was mostly affected by the four-week starvation period. However, both in-situ and ex-situ biomethanation reactors recovered their methane production rate after starvation within approximately one-week of normal operation, while the anaerobic digestion (AD) reactors did not recover their performances even after 3 weeks of normal operation. The recovery failure of the AD reactors was probably related to a slow growth of the syntrophic and methanogen microorganisms, that led to a VFA accumulation. On the contrary, the faster recovery of both biomethanation reactors was related to the replacement of Methanoculleus sp. by Methanobacterium sp., restoring the methane production in the in-situ and ex-situ biomethanation reactors. This study has shown that biomethanation processes can respond favourably to the intermittent H2 addition without compromising their CH4 production performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Braga Nan
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - E Trably
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - G Santa-Catalina
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - N Bernet
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - J-P Delgenes
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - R Escudie
- INRAE, Univ. Montpellier, LBE, 102 AV. des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France.
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15
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Model application to a lab-scale thermophilic hydrogenotrophic methanation system. Biochem Eng J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2021.108228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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16
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Past, Present and Near Future: An Overview of Closed, Running and Planned Biomethanation Facilities in Europe. ENERGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/en14185591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The power-to-methane technology is promising for long-term, high-capacity energy storage. Currently, there are two different industrial-scale methanation methods: the chemical one (based on the Sabatier reaction) and the biological one (using microorganisms for the conversion). The second method can be used not only to methanize the mixture of pure hydrogen and carbon dioxide but also to methanize the hydrogen and carbon dioxide content of low-quality gases, such as biogas or deponia gas, enriching them to natural gas quality; therefore, the applicability of biomethanation is very wide. In this paper, we present an overview of the existing and planned industrial-scale biomethanation facilities in Europe, as well as review the facilities closed in recent years after successful operation in the light of the scientific and socioeconomic context. To outline key directions for further developments, this paper interconnects biomethanation projects with the competitiveness of the energy sector in Europe for the first time in the literature. The results show that future projects should have an integrative view of electrolysis and biomethanation, as well as hydrogen storage and utilization with carbon capture and utilization (HSU&CCU) to increase sectoral competitiveness by enhanced decarbonization.
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17
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Janesch E, Pereira J, Neubauer P, Junne S. Phase Separation in Anaerobic Digestion: A Potential for Easier Process Combination? FRONTIERS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fceng.2021.711971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The flexibilization of bioenergy production has the potential to counteract partly other fluctuating renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar power). As a weather-independent energy source, anaerobic digestion (AD) can offer on-demand energy supply through biogas production. Separation of the stages in anaerobic digestion represents a promising strategy for the flexibilization of the fermentative part of biogas production. Segregation in two reactor systems facilitates monitoring and control of the provision of educts to the second methanogenic stage, thus controlling biogas production. Two-stage operation has proven to reach similar or even higher methane yields and biogas purities than single-stage operation in many different fields of application. It furthermore allows methanation of green hydrogen and an easier combination of material and energy use of many biogenic raw and residual biomass sources. A lot of research has been conducted in recent years regarding the process phase separation in multi-stage AD operation, which includes more than two stages. Reliable monitoring tools, coupled with effluent recirculation, bioaugmentation and simulation have the potential to overcome the current drawbacks of a sophisticated and unstable operation. This review aims to summarize recent developments, new perspectives for coupling processes for energy and material use and a system integration of AD for power-to-gas applications. Thereby, cell physiological and engineering aspects as well as the basic economic feasibility are discussed. As conclusion, monitoring and control concepts as well as suitable separation technologies and finally the data basis for techno-economic and ecologic assessments have to be improved.
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Miehle M, Hackbarth M, Gescher J, Horn H, Hille-Reichel A. Biological biogas upgrading in a membrane biofilm reactor with and without organic carbon source. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 335:125287. [PMID: 34034065 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.125287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Biogas upgrading is a necessary step to minimize the CO2 of raw biogas and to make it suitable for gas liquefaction or introduction into the national gas grid. Biomethanation is a promising approach since it converts the CO2 to more methane on site, while taking advantage of the organisms responsible for biogas production in the first place. This study investigates the suitability of a pseudo-dead-end membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) for ex-situ biogas upgrading using biogas as sole carbon source as well as for additional acetoclastic methanation when an organic carbon source is provided. Results prove that the concept of MBfR is especially advantageous for ex-situ hydrogenotrophic methanation of biogas CO2, yielding high product gas qualities of up to 99% methane. It is discussed that cross-flow membrane operation could reduce mass flux of inert methane through membranes, attached biofilms, and reactor liquid, and, thus, improve methanation space time yields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Miehle
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Max Hackbarth
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany; DVGW Research Centre at Engler-Bunte-Institut of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Water Chemistry, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Johannes Gescher
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Institute for Applied Biology (IAB), Fritz-Haber-Weg 2, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Harald Horn
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany; DVGW Research Centre at Engler-Bunte-Institut of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Water Chemistry, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany
| | - Andrea Hille-Reichel
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, Karlsruhe 76131, Germany.
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19
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Wahid R, Horn SJ. Impact of operational conditions on methane yield and microbial community composition during biological methanation in in situ and hybrid reactor systems. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2021; 14:170. [PMID: 34416924 PMCID: PMC8379887 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-021-02019-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biogas can be upgraded to methane biologically by adding H2 to biogas reactors. The process is called biological methanation (BM) and can be done in situ in a regular biogas reactor or the biogas can be transferred to a separate ex situ upgrading reactor. The hybrid BM concept, a combination of in situ and ex situ BM, has received little attention, and only a few studies have been reported. The hybrid BM has the advantage of resolving the issue of pH increment during in situ BM, while the size of the ex situ BM reactor could be reduced. RESULTS In this study, the efficiency of in situ and hybrid biological methanation (BM) for upgrading raw biogas was investigated. The hybrid BM system achieved a CH4 yield of 257 mL gVS-1 when degrading a feedstock blend of manure and cheese waste. This represented an increase in methane yield of 76% when compared to the control reactor with no H2 addition. A 2:1 H2:CO2 ratio resulted in stable reactor performance, while a 4:1 ratio resulted in a high accumulation of volatile fatty acids. H2 consumption rate was improved when a low manure-cheese waste ratio (90%:10%) was applied. Furthermore, feeding less frequently (every 48 h) resulted in a higher CH4 production from CO2 and H2. Methanothermobacter was found to dominate the archaeal community in the in situ BM reactor, and its relative abundance increased over the experimental time. Methanosarcina abundance was negatively affected by H2 addition and was nearly non-existent at the end of the experiment. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that hybrid BM outperforms in situ BM in terms of total CH4 production and content of CH4 in the biogas. In comparison to in situ BM, the use of hybrid BM increased CH4 yield by up to 42%. Furthermore, addition of H2 at 2:1 H2:CO2 ratio in in situ BM resulted in stable reactor operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radziah Wahid
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Svein Jarle Horn
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
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Illi L, Lecker B, Lemmer A, Müller J, Oechsner H. Biological methanation of injected hydrogen in a two-stage anaerobic digestion process. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 333:125126. [PMID: 33906018 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.125126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In the field of biological hydrogen methanation, ideal process parameters are underexplored for continuous two-stage systems with anaerobic filters. The present study aims at filling this gap for continuous in-situ reactors while applying different hydrogen injection rates. The results of the study demonstrate an almost complete acid degradation on the output side of the anaerobic filter fed by hydrolysate from maize silage and silage effluent. Most of the oxidizable substances were transferred to methane, but hydrogen could not be completely converted. With fully stoichiometric hydrogen addition, a methane production rate of 0.88 ± 0.06 m3d-1 per m3 reactor volume was reached. With half stoichiometric hydrogen addition, a hydrogen conversion rate of 75.53 ± 3.77% was obtained. The present approach proved to be a promising contribution to power-to-gas technology, as a considerable amount of hydrogen had to be converted into methane while carbon dioxide was fixed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Illi
- State Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Bioenergy, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Lecker
- State Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Bioenergy, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andreas Lemmer
- State Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Bioenergy, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Joachim Müller
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Tropics and Subtropics Group, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Hans Oechsner
- State Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Bioenergy, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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21
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Hervy M, Maistrello J, Brito L, Rizand M, Basset E, Kara Y, Maheut M. Power-to-gas: CO2 methanation in a catalytic fluidized bed reactor at demonstration scale, experimental results and simulation. J CO2 UTIL 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2021.101610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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22
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Archaea: An Agro-Ecological Perspective. Curr Microbiol 2021; 78:2510-2521. [PMID: 34019119 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-021-02537-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Microorganisms inhabiting bulk soil and rhizosphere play an important role in soil biogeochemical cycles leading to enhanced plant growth and productivity. In this context, the role of bacteria is well established, however, not much reports are available about the role archaea plays in this regard. Literature suggests that archaea also play a greater role in nutrient cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and other minerals, possess various plant growth promoting attributes, and can impart tolerance to various abiotic stresses (especially osmotic and oxidative) in areas of high salinity, low and high temperatures and hydrogen ion concentrations. Thermoacidophilic archaea have been found to potentially involve in bioleaching of mineral ores and bioremediation of chemical pollutants and aromatic compounds. Looking at immense potential of archaea in promoting plant growth, alleviating abiotic stresses, and remediating contaminated sites, detailed studies are required to establish their role in different ecological processes, and their interactions in rhizosphere with plant and other microflora (bacteria and fungi) in different ecosystems. In this review, a brief discussion on archaea from the agro-ecological point of view is presented.
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Okoro‐Shekwaga CK, Ross A, Camargo‐Valero MA. Enhancing bioenergy production from food waste by in situ biomethanation: Effect of the hydrogen injection point. Food Energy Secur 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/fes3.288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Kusin Okoro‐Shekwaga
- BioResource Systems Research Group School of Civil Engineering University of Leeds Leeds UK
- Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering Federal University of Technology Minna Nigeria
| | - Andrew Ross
- School of Chemical and Process Engineering University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Miller Alonso Camargo‐Valero
- BioResource Systems Research Group School of Civil Engineering University of Leeds Leeds UK
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Campus La Nubia Manizales Colombia
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24
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Pérez D, Lie TT, Weber CC. Operationalization of a microbial electrolysis cell: The interaction of the primary factors for energy storage efficiency. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 326:124788. [PMID: 33561662 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.124788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrolysis cells have attracted attention as a method to enhance anaerobic digesters' performance. However, optimization of individual factors is not directly transferrable among systems as many are intimately linked and influenced by the system design, influent, and inoculum. To avoid this, here the effects and interactions between the relative electrode size, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and voltage imposed have been explored within a pair of otherwise identical reactors. Methane production has a positive correlation with the applied voltage, reaching 12.9 mLCH4 L-1h-1 with 10 days HRT and 1000 mV, also achieving 35% energy storage efficiency, despite the higher electrical input. Shorter HRTs led to bacterial washouts, reducing the methane production below 10 mLCH4 L-1h-1. Contour plots were constructed to relate the energy storage efficiency with operational conditions changes. These highlighted the benefits of using a relatively larger cathode than anode for improving energy storage efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Pérez
- School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Tek T Lie
- School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cameron C Weber
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Pratofiorito G, Hackbarth M, Mandel C, Madlanga S, West S, Horn H, Hille-Reichel A. A membrane biofilm reactor for hydrogenotrophic methanation. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 321:124444. [PMID: 33285505 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.124444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Biomethanation of CO2 has been proven to be a feasible way to produce methane with the employment of H2 as electron source. Subject of the present study is a custom-made membrane biofilm reactor for hydrogenotrophic methanation by archaeal biofilms cultivated on membrane surfaces. Reactor layout was adapted to allow for in situ biofilm analysis via optical coherence tomography. At a feeding ratio of H2/CO2 of 3.6, and despite the low membrane surface to reactor volume ratio of 57.9 m2 m-3, the maximum methane production per reactor volume reached up to 1.17 Nm3 m-3 d-1 at a methane content of the produced gas above 97% (v/v). These results demonstrate that the concept of membrane bound biofilms enables improved mass transfer by delivering substrate gases directly to the biofilm, thus, rendering the bottleneck of low solubility of hydrogen in water less drastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Pratofiorito
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Max Hackbarth
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; DVGW Research Centre at Engler-Bunte-Institut of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Water Chemistry, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Carmen Mandel
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Siyavuya Madlanga
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; DVGW Research Centre at Engler-Bunte-Institut of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Water Chemistry, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Stephanie West
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Harald Horn
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; DVGW Research Centre at Engler-Bunte-Institut of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Water Chemistry, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Andrea Hille-Reichel
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Engler-Bunte-Institut, Water Chemistry and Water Technology, Engler-Bunte-Ring 9a, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
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Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion of Second Cheese Whey: Microbial Community Response to H2 Addition in a Partially Immobilized Anaerobic Hybrid Reactor. Processes (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated thermophilic (55 °C) anaerobic digestion (AD) performance and microbial community structure, before and after hydrogen addition, in a novel hybrid gas-stirred tank reactor (GSTR) implemented with a partial immobilization of the microbial community and fed with second cheese whey (SCW). The results showed that H2 addition led to a 25% increase in the methane production rate and to a decrease of 13% in the CH4 concentration as compared with the control. The recovery of methane content (56%) was reached by decreasing the H2 flow rate. The microbial community investigations were performed on effluent (EF) and on interstitial matrix (IM) inside the immobilized area. Before H2 addition, the Anaerobaculaceae (42%) and Lachnospiraceae (27%) families dominated among bacteria in the effluent, and the Thermodesulfobiaceae (32%) and Lachnospiraceae (30%) families dominated in the interstitial matrix. After H2 addition, microbial abundance showed an increase in the bacteria and archaea communities in the interstitial matrix. The Thermodesulfobiaceae family (29%)remained dominant in the interstitial matrix, suggesting its crucial role in the immobilized community and the SHA-31 family was enriched in both the effluent (36%) and the interstitial matrix (15%). The predominance of archaea Methanothermobacter thermoautrophicus indicated that CH4 was produced almost exclusively by the hydrogenotrophic pathway.
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27
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Dahl Jønson B, Ujarak Sieborg M, Tahir Ashraf M, Yde L, Shin J, Shin SG, Mi Triolo J. Direct inoculation of a biotrickling filter for hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 318:124098. [PMID: 32947139 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.124098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogenotrophic biomethanation in a biotrickling filter has been reported to be a proven technology for biological biogas upgrading in recent studies. However, the preparation of enriched hydrogenotrophic methanogens in a separate reactor prior to biomethanation in a trickled bed is a lengthy procedure and therefore hard to apply on an industrial scale. This study explored the direct inoculation of anaerobic biogas digestate for simultaneous enrichment of hydrogenotrophic methanogens and biofilm immobilisation in a trickled bed system. The direct inoculation and formation of hydrogenotrophic biofilm was successful and resulted in a stable H2 loading rate of 11 [Formula: see text] , with the highest specific methane productivity recorded at 3.03 Nm3mR-3d-1 and a purity of 98% CH4 in thermophilic conditions. The DNA analysis confirmed that hydrogenotrophic methanogens dominated the archaeal consortia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Dahl Jønson
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-5230, Denmark; Nature Energy A/S, Odense DK-5220, Denmark
| | - Mads Ujarak Sieborg
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-5230, Denmark
| | - Muhammad Tahir Ashraf
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-5230, Denmark
| | - Lars Yde
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-5230, Denmark
| | - Juhee Shin
- Department of Energy Engineering, Future Convergence Technology Research Institute, Gyeongnam National University of Science and Technology, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52725, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Gu Shin
- Department of Energy Engineering, Future Convergence Technology Research Institute, Gyeongnam National University of Science and Technology, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52725, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Mi Triolo
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-5230, Denmark.
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Temperature and Inoculum Origin Influence the Performance of Ex-Situ Biological Hydrogen Methanation. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235665. [PMID: 33271799 PMCID: PMC7730501 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of H2 into methane can be carried out by microorganisms in a process so-called biomethanation. In ex-situ biomethanation H2 and CO2 gas are exogenous to the system. One of the main limitations of the biomethanation process is the low gas-liquid transfer rate and solubility of H2 which are strongly influenced by the temperature. Hydrogenotrophic methanogens that are responsible for the biomethanation reaction are also very sensitive to temperature variations. The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of temperature on batch biomethanation process in mixed culture. The performances of mesophilic and thermophilic inocula were assessed at 4 temperatures (24, 35, 55 and 65 °C). A negative impact of the low temperature (24 °C) was observed on microbial kinetics. Although methane production rate was higher at 55 and 65 °C (respectively 290 ± 55 and 309 ± 109 mL CH4/L.day for the mesophilic inoculum) than at 24 and 35 °C (respectively 156 ± 41 and 253 ± 51 mL CH4/L.day), the instability of the system substantially increased, likely because of a strong dominance of only Methanothermobacter species. Considering the maximal methane production rates and their stability all along the experiments, an optimal temperature range of 35 °C or 55 °C is recommended to operate ex-situ biomethanation process.
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29
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Analysis of the Existing Barriers for the Market Development of Power to Hydrogen (P2H) in Italy. ENERGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/en13184835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
New technological solutions are required to control the impact of the increasing presence of renewable energy sources connected to the electric grid that are characterized by unpredictable production (i.e., wind and solar energy). Energy storage is becoming essential to stabilize the grid when a mismatch between production and demand occurs. Among the available solutions, Power to Hydrogen (P2H) is one of the most attractive options. However, despite the potential, many barriers currently hinder P2H market development. The literature reports general barriers and strategies to overcome them, but a specific analysis is fundamental to identifying how these barriers concretely arise in national and regional frameworks, since tailored solutions are needed to foster the development of P2H local market. The paper aims to identify and to analyze the existing barriers for P2H market uptake in Italy. The paper shows how several technical, regulatory and economic issues are still unsolved, resulting in a source of uncertainty for P2H investment. The paper also suggests possible approaches and solutions to address the Italian barriers and to support politics and decision-makers in the definition and implementation of the national hydrogen strategy.
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30
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Perez D, Lie TT, Weber CC. Relative electrode size and organic load effects on the energy storage efficiency of microbial electrolysis cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biteb.2020.100518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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31
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Braga Nan L, Trably E, Santa-Catalina G, Bernet N, Delgenès JP, Escudié R. Biomethanation processes: new insights on the effect of a high H 2 partial pressure on microbial communities. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2020; 13:141. [PMID: 32793302 PMCID: PMC7419211 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-020-01776-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biomethanation is a promising solution to upgrade the CH4 content in biogas. This process consists in the injection of H2 into an anaerobic digester, using the capacity of indigenous hydrogenotrophic methanogens for converting the injected H2 and the CO2 generated from the anaerobic digestion process into CH4. However, the injection of H2 could cause process disturbances by impacting the microbial communities of the anaerobic digester. Better understanding on how the indigenous microbial community can adapt to high H2 partial pressures is therefore required. RESULTS Seven microbial inocula issued from industrial bioprocesses treating different types of waste were exposed to a high H2 partial pressure in semi-continuous reactors. After 12 days of operation, even though both CH4 and volatile fatty acids (VFA) were produced as end products, one of them was the main product. Acetate was the most abundant VFA, representing up to 94% of the total VFA production. VFA accumulation strongly anti-correlated with CH4 production according to the source of inoculum. Three clusters of inocula were distinguished: (1) inocula leading to CH4 production, (2) inocula leading to the production of methane and VFA in a low proportion, and (3) inocula leading to the accumulation of mostly VFA, mainly acetate. Interestingly, VFA accumulation was highly correlated to a low proportion of archaea in the inocula, a higher amount of homoacetogens than hydrogenotrophic methanogens and, the absence or the very low abundance in members from the Methanosarcinales order. The best methanogenic performances were obtained when hydrogenotrophic methanogens and Methanosarcina sp. co-dominated all along the operation. CONCLUSIONS New insights on the microbial community response to high H2 partial pressure are provided in this work. H2 injection in semi-continuous reactors showed a significant impact on microbial communities and their associated metabolic patterns. Hydrogenotrophic methanogens, Methanobacterium sp. or Methanoculleus sp. were highly selected in the reactors, but the presence of co-dominant Methanosarcinales related species were required to produce higher amounts of CH4 than VFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Braga Nan
- INRAE, Univ Montpellier, LBE, 102 Avenue des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | - Eric Trably
- INRAE, Univ Montpellier, LBE, 102 Avenue des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | | | - Nicolas Bernet
- INRAE, Univ Montpellier, LBE, 102 Avenue des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
| | | | - Renaud Escudié
- INRAE, Univ Montpellier, LBE, 102 Avenue des Etangs, 11100 Narbonne, France
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Sekoai PT, Engelbrecht N, du Preez SP, Bessarabov D. Thermophilic Biogas Upgrading via ex Situ Addition of H 2 and CO 2 Using Codigested Feedstocks of Cow Manure and the Organic Fraction of Solid Municipal Waste. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:17367-17376. [PMID: 32715221 PMCID: PMC7377068 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c01725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bioconversion of renewable H2 and waste CO2 using methanogenic archaea is a promising technology for obtaining high-purity CH4, which can serve as an alternative for natural gas. This process is known as ex situ biogas upgrading. This work highlights the pathway toward the bioconversion of renewable H2 and CO2 into high-purity biomethane by exploiting highly accessible agro-municipal residues: cow manure (CM) and the organic fraction of solid municipal waste (OFSMW), which used to be called "waste materials". More specifically, an ex situ thermophilic (55 °C) biogas upgrading process was conducted by CM and OFSMW codigestion at different mass proportions: 100:0, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50. Maximum CH4 concentrations of 92-97 vol % and biogas volumetric production rates of 4954-6605 NmL/L.d were obtained from a batch reactor of 3 L working volume. Feedstock characterization, pH monitoring, and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio were critical parameters to evaluate during biogas upgrading experiments. In this work, the usefulness of agro-municipal substrates is highlighted by producing high-purity biomethane-an energetic chemical to facilitate renewable energy conversion, which supports various end-use applications. This process therefore provides a solution to renewable energy storage challenges and future sustainable and green energy supply.
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Zhu X, Zhou P, Chen Y, Liu X, Li D. The role of endogenous and exogenous hydrogen in the microbiology of biogas production systems. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 36:79. [DOI: 10.1007/s11274-020-02856-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Logroño W, Popp D, Kleinsteuber S, Sträuber H, Harms H, Nikolausz M. Microbial Resource Management for Ex Situ Biomethanation of Hydrogen at Alkaline pH. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8040614. [PMID: 32344539 PMCID: PMC7232305 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8040614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomethanation is a promising solution to convert H2 (produced from surplus electricity) and CO2 to CH4 by using hydrogenotrophic methanogens. In ex situ biomethanation with mixed cultures, homoacetogens and methanogens compete for H2/CO2. We enriched a hydrogenotrophic microbiota on CO2 and H2 as sole carbon and energy sources, respectively, to investigate these competing reactions. The microbial community structure and dynamics of bacteria and methanogenic archaea were evaluated through 16S rRNA and mcrA gene amplicon sequencing, respectively. Hydrogenotrophic methanogens and homoacetogens were enriched, as acetate was concomitantly produced alongside CH4. By controlling the media composition, especially changing the reducing agent, the formation of acetate was lowered and grid quality CH4 (≥97%) was obtained. Formate was identified as an intermediate that was produced and consumed during the bioprocess. Stirring intensities ≥ 1000 rpm were detrimental, probably due to shear force stress. The predominating methanogens belonged to the genera Methanobacterium and Methanoculleus. The bacterial community was dominated by Lutispora. The methanogenic community was stable, whereas the bacterial community was more dynamic. Our results suggest that hydrogenotrophic communities can be steered towards the selective production of CH4 from H2/CO2 by adapting the media composition, the reducing agent and the stirring intensity.
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Yang HJ, Yang ZM, Xu XH, Guo RB. Increasing the methane production rate of hydrogenotrophic methanogens using biochar as a biocarrier. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 302:122829. [PMID: 32028147 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.122829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The existence of CO2 in biogas will affect its practicality, so the methanation of CO2 is of great significance. Carrier materials play a key role in bioconversion of CO2 to methane during biogas upgrading. Herein, different materials were used to evaluate the bioconversion process of CO2 to methane, which consisted of black ceramsite (BC) and biochars prepared from corn straw and digestate. The results showed that after adding the carrier materials, the methane production rate increased by more than 20%, and the corn straw biochar (CSB) group even increased by more than 70%. This may be attributed to the large specific surface area and more functional groups in corn straw biochar which was suitable for the immobilization of hydrogenotrophic methanogens (HMs). Therefore, corn straw biochar is a good carrier material for the accelerated bioconversion of CO2 to methane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Jie Yang
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266101, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Zhi-Man Yang
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266101, PR China
| | - Xiao-Hui Xu
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266101, PR China
| | - Rong-Bo Guo
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266101, PR China; Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian 116023, PR China.
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Bakonyi P, Peter J, Koter S, Mateos R, Kumar G, Koók L, Rózsenberszki T, Pientka Z, Kujawski W, Kim SH, Nemestóthy N, Bélafi-Bakó K, Pant D. Possibilities for the biologically-assisted utilization of CO2-rich gaseous waste streams generated during membrane technological separation of biohydrogen. J CO2 UTIL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Green Synthetic Fuels: Renewable Routes for the Conversion of Non-Fossil Feedstocks into Gaseous Fuels and Their End Uses. ENERGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/en13020420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Innovative renewable routes are potentially able to sustain the transition to a decarbonized energy economy. Green synthetic fuels, including hydrogen and natural gas, are considered viable alternatives to fossil fuels. Indeed, they play a fundamental role in those sectors that are difficult to electrify (e.g., road mobility or high-heat industrial processes), are capable of mitigating problems related to flexibility and instantaneous balance of the electric grid, are suitable for large-size and long-term storage and can be transported through the gas network. This article is an overview of the overall supply chain, including production, transport, storage and end uses. Available fuel conversion technologies use renewable energy for the catalytic conversion of non-fossil feedstocks into hydrogen and syngas. We will show how relevant technologies involve thermochemical, electrochemical and photochemical processes. The syngas quality can be improved by catalytic CO and CO2 methanation reactions for the generation of synthetic natural gas. Finally, the produced gaseous fuels could follow several pathways for transport and lead to different final uses. Therefore, storage alternatives and gas interchangeability requirements for the safe injection of green fuels in the natural gas network and fuel cells are outlined. Nevertheless, the effects of gas quality on combustion emissions and safety are considered.
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Rusmanis D, O’Shea R, Wall DM, Murphy JD. Biological hydrogen methanation systems - an overview of design and efficiency. Bioengineered 2019; 10:604-634. [PMID: 31679461 PMCID: PMC6844437 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2019.1684607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The rise in intermittent renewable electricity production presents a global requirement for energy storage. Biological hydrogen methanation (BHM) facilitates wind and solar energy through the storage of otherwise curtailed or constrained electricity in the form of the gaseous energy vector biomethane. Biological methanation in the circular economy involves the reaction of hydrogen - produced during electrolysis - with carbon dioxide in biogas to produce methane (4H2 + CO2 = CH4 + 2H2), typically increasing the methane output of the biogas system by 70%. In this paper, several BHM systems were researched and a compilation of such systems was synthesized, facilitating comparison of key parameters such as methane evolution rate (MER) and retention time. Increased retention times were suggested to be related to less efficient systems with long travel paths for gases through reactors. A significant lack of information on gas-liquid transfer co-efficient was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davis Rusmanis
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute (ERI), University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
- School of Engineering, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | - Richard O’Shea
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute (ERI), University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
- School of Engineering, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | - David M. Wall
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute (ERI), University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
- School of Engineering, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jerry D. Murphy
- MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute (ERI), University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
- School of Engineering, UCC, Cork, Ireland
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39
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Methanogenic activity and microbial communities characteristics in dry and wet anaerobic digestion sludges from swine manure. Biochem Eng J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2019.107390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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40
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Strübing D, Moeller AB, Mößnang B, Lebuhn M, Drewes JE, Koch K. Load change capability of an anaerobic thermophilic trickle bed reactor for dynamic H 2/CO 2 biomethanation. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 289:121735. [PMID: 31300304 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.121735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Increasing shares of energy production originating from fluctuating renewable sources require measures that are able to balance power production for a stable electricity grid. H2/CO2 biomethanation is a suitable approach to convert fluctuating excess renewable energy into the storable substitute natural gas. This study investigated the rapid load change capability of an anaerobic thermophilic trickle bed reactor while maintaining a high methane content. The return to full load (62.1 m3H2/m3trickle bed/d) after a 30-min operational off-cycle was possible almost immediately, while 24-h interruptions required a 60-min stepwise load increase. To accelerate this delayed microbial conversion activity, non-steady state substrate gas conversion can be controlled via substrate and product gas flow rates, allowing to reactivate the entire microbial community and produce high quality product gas. Reactor design might be further improved to avoid short-circuiting and use the entire trickle bed gas phase as high quality gas buffer during initial load increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar Strübing
- Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Andreas B Moeller
- Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Bettina Mößnang
- Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, Central Department for Quality Assurance and Analytics, Lange Point 6, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Michael Lebuhn
- Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, Central Department for Quality Assurance and Analytics, Lange Point 6, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Jörg E Drewes
- Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Konrad Koch
- Technical University of Munich, Chair of Urban Water Systems Engineering, Am Coulombwall 3, 85748 Garching, Germany.
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41
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Biological hydrogen production: molecular and electrolytic perspectives. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 35:116. [PMID: 31332538 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-019-2692-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Exploration of renewable energy sources is an imperative task in order to replace fossil fuels and to diminish atmospheric pollution. Hydrogen is considered one of the most promising fuels for the future and implores further investigation to find eco-friendly ways toward viable production. Expansive processes like electrolysis and fossil fuels are currently being used to produce hydrogen. Biological hydrogen production (BHP) displays recyclable and economical traits, and is thus imperative for hydrogen economy. Three basic modes of BHP were investigated, including bio photolysis, photo fermentation and dark fermentation. Photosynthetic microorganisms could readily serve as powerhouses to successively produce this type of energy. Cyanobacteria, blue green algae (bio photolysis) and some purple non-sulfur bacteria (Photo fermentation) utilize solar energy and produce hydrogen during their metabolic processes. Ionic species, including hydrogen (H+) and electrons (e-) are combined into hydrogen gas (H2), with the use of special enzymes called hydrogenases in the case of bio photolysis, and nitrogenases catalyze the formation of hydrogen in the case of photo fermentation. Nevertheless, oxygen sensitivity of these enzymes is a drawback for bio photolysis and photo fermentation, whereas, the amount of hydrogen per unit substrate produced appears insufficient for dark fermentation. This review focuses on innovative advances in the bioprocess research, genetic engineering and bioprocess technologies such as microbial fuel cell technology, in developing bio hydrogen production.
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Pappenreiter PA, Zwirtmayr S, Mauerhofer LM, Rittmann SKMR, Paulik C. Development of a simultaneous bioreactor system for characterization of gas production kinetics of methanogenic archaea at high pressure. Eng Life Sci 2019; 19:537-544. [PMID: 32625030 PMCID: PMC6999276 DOI: 10.1002/elsc.201900035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cultivation of methanogens under high pressure offers a great opportunity in biotechnological processes, one of which is the improvement of the gas‐liquid transfer of substrate gases into the medium broth. This article describes a newly developed simultaneous bioreactor system consisting of four identical cultivation vessels suitable for investigation of microbial activity at pressures up to 50 bar and temperatures up to 145°C. Initial pressure studies at 10 and 50 bar of the autotrophic and hydrogenotrophic methanogens Methanothermobacter marburgensis, Methanobacterium palustre, and Methanobacterium thermaggregans were performed to evaluate the reproducibility of the system as well as to test the productivity of these strains. The strains were compared with respect to gas conversion (%), methane evolution rate (MER) (mmol L‐1 h−1), turnover rate (h−1), and maximum conversion rate (kmin) (bar h−1). A pressure drop that can be explained by the reaction stoichiometry showed that all tested strains were active under pressurized conditions. Our study sheds light on the production kinetics of methanogenic strains under high‐pressure conditions. In addition, the simultaneous bioreactor system is a suitable first step screening system for analyzing the substrate uptake and/or production kinetics of gas conversion and/or gas production processes for barophilic or barotolerant microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Zwirtmayr
- Institute for Chemical Technology of Organic Materials Johannes Kepler University Linz Linz Austria
| | - Lisa-Maria Mauerhofer
- Archaea Physiology & Biotechnology Group Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics Division Department of Ecogenomics and Systems Biology Universität Wien Wien Austria
| | - Simon Karl-Maria Rasso Rittmann
- Archaea Physiology & Biotechnology Group Archaea Biology and Ecogenomics Division Department of Ecogenomics and Systems Biology Universität Wien Wien Austria
| | - Christian Paulik
- Institute for Chemical Technology of Organic Materials Johannes Kepler University Linz Linz Austria
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43
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Alfaro N, Fdz-Polanco M, Fdz-Polanco F, Díaz I. H 2 addition through a submerged membrane for in-situ biogas upgrading in the anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 280:1-8. [PMID: 30743054 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.01.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In-situ upgrading of biogas in a mesophilic anaerobic digester of sewage sludge by sparging H2 through a membrane was studied. Large gas recirculation rates were required to facilitate H2 transfer to the bulk liquid phase; at ∼200 L Lreactor-1 d-1, H2 utilization efficiency averaged 94% and the specific CH4 production increased from 0.38 L Lreactor-1 d-1, during conventional digestion, to 0.54 L Lreactor-1 d-1. Sludge digestion was not compromised by elevated H2 partial pressure nor by the associated rise in the pH (8.1) because of CO2 removal. In this regard, VFA accumulation was not detected and the performance of VS removal was similar to the observed without H2 supply. Microbial analysis revealed that homoacetogens were outcompeted by hydrogenotrophic methanogens. Methanoculleus sp., Methanospirillum sp., Methanolinea sp. and Methanobacterium sp. were the hydrogenotrophic archaea present over the experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Alfaro
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, Escuela de Ingenierías Industriales, Sede Dr. Mergelina, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - María Fdz-Polanco
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, Escuela de Ingenierías Industriales, Sede Dr. Mergelina, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; Institute of Sustainable Processes, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Fernando Fdz-Polanco
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, Escuela de Ingenierías Industriales, Sede Dr. Mergelina, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; Institute of Sustainable Processes, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Israel Díaz
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, Escuela de Ingenierías Industriales, Sede Dr. Mergelina, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain; Institute of Sustainable Processes, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n, 47011 Valladolid, Spain.
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Abstract
Power-to-Methane as one part of Power-to-Gas has been recognized globally as one of the key elements for the transition towards a sustainable energy system. While plants that produce methane catalytically have been in operation for a long time, biological methanation has just reached industrial pilot scale and near-term commercial application. The growing importance of the biological method is reflected by an increasing number of scientific articles describing novel approaches to improve this technology. However, these studies are difficult to compare because they lack a coherent nomenclature. In this article, we present a comprehensive set of parameters allowing the characterization and comparison of various biological methanation processes. To identify relevant parameters needed for a proper description of this technology, we summarized existing literature and defined system boundaries for Power-to-Methane process steps. On this basis, we derive system parameters providing information on the methanation system, its performance, the biology and cost aspects. As a result, three different standards are provided as a blueprint matrix for use in academia and industry applicable to both, biological and catalytic methanation. Hence, this review attempts to set the standards for a comprehensive description of biological and chemical methanation processes.
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Wahid R, Mulat DG, Gaby JC, Horn SJ. Effects of H 2:CO 2 ratio and H 2 supply fluctuation on methane content and microbial community composition during in-situ biological biogas upgrading. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2019; 12:104. [PMID: 31164923 PMCID: PMC6489297 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-019-1443-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Commercial biogas upgrading facilities are expensive and consume energy. Biological biogas upgrading may serve as a low-cost approach because it can be easily integrated with existing facilities at biogas plants. The microbial communities found in anaerobic digesters typically contain hydrogenotrophic methanogens, which can use hydrogen (H2) as a reducing agent for conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into methane (CH4). Thus, biological biogas upgrading through the exogenous addition of H2 into biogas digesters for the conversion of CO2 into CH4 can increase CH4 yield and lower CO2 emission. RESULTS The addition of 4 mol of H2 per mol of CO2 was optimal for batch biogas reactors and increased the CH4 content of the biogas from 67 to 94%. The CO2 content of the biogas was reduced from 33 to 3% and the average residual H2 content was 3%. At molar H2:CO2 ratios > 4:1, all CO2 was converted into CH4, but the pH increased above 8 due to depletion of CO2, which negatively influenced the process stability. Additionally, high residual H2 content in these reactors was unfavourable, causing volatile fatty acid accumulation and reduced CH4 yields. The reactor microbial communities shifted in composition over time, which corresponded to changes in the reactor variables. Numerous taxa responded to the H2 inputs, and in particular the hydrogenotrophic methanogen Methanobacterium increased in abundance with addition of H2. In addition, the apparent rapid response of hydrogenotrophic methanogens to intermittent H2 feeding indicates the suitability of biological methanation for variable H2 inputs, aligning well with fluctuations in renewable electricity production that may be used to produce H2. CONCLUSIONS Our research demonstrates that the H2:CO2 ratio has a significant effect on reactor performance during in situ biological methanation. Consequently, the H2:CO2 molar ratio should be kept at 4:1 to avoid process instability. A shift toward hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis was indicated by an increase in the abundance of the obligate hydrogenotrophic methanogen Methanobacterium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radziah Wahid
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Daniel Girma Mulat
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - John Christian Gaby
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Svein Jarle Horn
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
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Kapoor R, Ghosh P, Kumar M, Vijay VK. Evaluation of biogas upgrading technologies and future perspectives: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:11631-11661. [PMID: 30877529 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04767-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Biogas is acknowledged as one of the foremost bioenergy to address the current environmental and energy challenges being faced by the world. Commonly, biogas is used for applications like cooking, lighting, heat and power production. To widen the scope of biogas application, like transportation, natural gas grid injection and substrate for the production of chemicals and fuel cells, mainly CO2, H2S and other impurities need to be removed by various upgrading technologies. It is an important process to produce biomethane with above 90% methane. There are various physico-chemical (adsorption, absorption, cryogenic and membrane separations) and biological (in situ and ex situ) processes for biogas upgradation, and each process is site and case specific. The aim of the present paper is to thoroughly evaluate the existing and emerging biogas upgrading technologies. Analysis of each technology with respect to basis of operations, energy requirement, methane purity and recovery and cost economics has been carried out. A thorough analysis has been done on the major hurdles and the research gaps in this sector. For a wider and successful implementation of the biogas upgradation technology, the trends in research and development (R&D) such as development of efficient biogas upgrading technologies, adsorbents, reduction in cost and methane loss have been thoroughly evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimika Kapoor
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India.
| | - Pooja Ghosh
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Madan Kumar
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Virendra Kumar Vijay
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India.
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47
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Corbellini V, Catenacci A, Malpei F. Hydrogenotrophic biogas upgrading integrated into WWTPs: enrichment strategy. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2019; 79:759-770. [PMID: 30975942 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2019.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Within the European circular economy roadmap, it is important for wastewater treatment plant (WWTPs) to recover energy and become energy-neutral or -positive. In the last few years, it has become increasingly interesting to boost energy recovery through the biogas upgrading. The aim of this work is to study a rapid hydrogenotrophic methanogenic culture enrichment strategy capable of limiting the organic degradation unbalance and allowing a fast start-up phase of the in situ biogas upgrading reactors, at pilot- or full-scale. The approach was tested with two, plus one control, laboratory-scale continuous stirred tank reactors filled with anaerobic sludge collected from a full-scale WWTP. The experimentation lasted 50 days and was divided into five phases: the anaerobic digestion start-up followed by four H2 injection phases (H2/CO2 ranging from 1:1 to 4:1 on molar basis). Despite a temporary slight increase in the total concentration of volatile fatty acids during phase II (2.56 gCH3COOH·L-1), and in phase III a mild pH increase (anyway, below 7.4) indicating the expected CO2 depletion, the strategy proposed was effective. In the last phase, in the biogas a methane content of about 80% was achieved, thus suggesting that the use of H2/CO2 above the stoichiometric value could further improve the biological biogas upgrading.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Corbellini
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - DICA, Politecnico di Milano, Environmental Section, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy E-mail:
| | - A Catenacci
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - DICA, Politecnico di Milano, Environmental Section, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy E-mail:
| | - F Malpei
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - DICA, Politecnico di Milano, Environmental Section, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy E-mail:
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Straub CT, Counts JA, Nguyen DMN, Wu CH, Zeldes BM, Crosby JR, Conway JM, Otten JK, Lipscomb GL, Schut GJ, Adams MWW, Kelly RM. Biotechnology of extremely thermophilic archaea. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 42:543-578. [PMID: 29945179 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuy012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the extremely thermophilic archaea (Topt ≥ 70°C) may be the most primitive extant forms of life, they have been studied to a limited extent relative to mesophilic microorganisms. Many of these organisms have unique biochemical and physiological characteristics with important biotechnological implications. These include methanogens that generate methane, fermentative anaerobes that produce hydrogen gas with high efficiency, and acidophiles that can mobilize base, precious and strategic metals from mineral ores. Extremely thermophilic archaea have also been a valuable source of thermoactive, thermostable biocatalysts, but their use as cellular systems has been limited because of the general lack of facile genetics tools. This situation has changed recently, however, thereby providing an important avenue for understanding their metabolic and physiological details and also opening up opportunities for metabolic engineering efforts. Along these lines, extremely thermophilic archaea have recently been engineered to produce a variety of alcohols and industrial chemicals, in some cases incorporating CO2 into the final product. There are barriers and challenges to these organisms reaching their full potential as industrial microorganisms but, if these can be overcome, a new dimension for biotechnology will be forthcoming that strategically exploits biology at high temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Straub
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - James A Counts
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Diep M N Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Chang-Hao Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Benjamin M Zeldes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - James R Crosby
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Jonathan M Conway
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Jonathan K Otten
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
| | - Gina L Lipscomb
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Gerrit J Schut
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Michael W W Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Robert M Kelly
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7905, USA
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Aryal N, Kvist T, Ammam F, Pant D, Ottosen LDM. An overview of microbial biogas enrichment. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 264:359-369. [PMID: 29908874 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Biogas upgrading technologies have received widespread attention recently and are researched extensively. Microbial biogas upgrading (biomethanation) relies on the microbial performance in enriched H2 and CO2 environments. In this review, recent developments and applications of CH4 enrichment in microbial methanation processes are systematically reviewed. During biological methanation, either H2 can be injected directly inside the anaerobic digester to enrich CH4 by a consortium of mixed microbial species or H2 can be injected into a separate bioreactor, where CO2 contained in biogas is coupled with H2 and converted to CH4, or a combination hereof. The available microbial technologies based on hydrogen-mediated CH4 enrichment, in particular ex-situ, in-situ and bioelectrochemical, are compared and discussed. Moreover, gas-liquid mass transfer limitations, and dynamics of bacteria-archaea interactions shift after H2 injection are thoroughly discussed. Finally, the summary of existing demonstration, pilot plants and commercial CH4 enrichment plants based on microbial biomethanation are critically reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabin Aryal
- Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, Hangovej 2, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark; Danish Gas Technology Centre, Dr. Neergaards Vej 5B, DK-2970 Horsholm, Denmark
| | - Torben Kvist
- Danish Gas Technology Centre, Dr. Neergaards Vej 5B, DK-2970 Horsholm, Denmark
| | - Fariza Ammam
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, United Kingdom
| | - Deepak Pant
- Separation and Conversion Technology, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Lars D M Ottosen
- Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, Hangovej 2, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.
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50
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Lee MK, Sivagurunathan P, Yun YM, Kang S, Na JG, Kim DH. High-calorific bio-hydrogen production under self-generated high-pressure condition. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 264:174-179. [PMID: 29803087 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
For the use of biologically produced H2, removal of CO2 is an indispensable process. Unlike conventional CO2 removal methods, this study proposed a self-generated high-pressure dark fermentation (HPDF) process as a novel strategy for directly producing high-calorific bio-H2. The pressure was automatically increased by self-generated gas, while the maximum pressure inside fermenter was restricted to 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 bar in a batch operation. As the pressure increased from 1 to 10 bar, the H2 content increased from 55% to 80%, whereas the H2 yield decreased from 1.5 to 0.9 mol H2/mol hexoseadded. The highest H2 content of 80% was obtained at both of 7 and 10 bars. Increased lactate production with increased abundance of lactic acid bacteria was observed at high-pressure. Despite the lower H2 yields at high-pressure conditions, HPDF was found to be economically beneficial for obtaining high-calorific bio-H2 owing to the low CO2 removal cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Kwon Lee
- Department of Civil Engineering, Inha University, 100 Inharo, Nam-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Periyasamy Sivagurunathan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Inha University, 100 Inharo, Nam-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo-Myeong Yun
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, KAIST 291 Daehak-ro, Yeseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seoktae Kang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, KAIST 291 Daehak-ro, Yeseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Geol Na
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baek-bumro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hoon Kim
- Department of Civil Engineering, Inha University, 100 Inharo, Nam-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea.
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