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Green Engineering: Designing Biogas Plant to Optimize Waste Management
Designing a Biogas Plant that Adheres to the 12 Principles of Green Engineering
How the Biogas Plant Prototype Works
The pilot biogas plant consists of a main reactor, which is basically a stirred tank reactor within which pH and temperature are controlled. The way the system works is relatively straightforward: organic matter is continuously added, which is then broken down by anaerobic bacteria who produce biogas during the metabolic process. The company is planning to offer similar systems that can be used to treat waste generated from agriculture and aquaculture, as well as mud and sludge produced during water purification processes, to both local and international clients soon. "Since the equipment is used for R+D at the university, it includes some additional equipment that makes the process more versatile," said Javier Roa Fresno. "The ultimate goal is to develop the technology and optimize the processes that lead to energy production on an industrial scale, using organic waste," he concludes.Sustainable Energy Production
There is no shortage of organic waste; it is continuously produced at aquaculture farms, agricultural farms, wastewater treatment facilities, and landfills. By converting this waste into biogas, we will not only effectively manage out waste stream, but also produce a viable source of renewable energy that will reduce our dependence on dirty fossil fuels. Further Reading: Anastas, P.T., and Zimmerman, J.B., "Design through the Twelve Principles of Green Engineering", Env. Sci. and Tech., 37, 5, 94A-101A. http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es032373gImage Credit: USFWSmidwest, via Flickr