If biogas is to be produced reliably, stable processes are required
Biogas plants place high demands on process stability and gas quality. CHEMIA BRUGG supports these requirements with suitable products for pH regulation, desulfurization and gas treatment.
Biogas plants make an important contribution to sustainable energy production. In Switzerland, more than 200 plants are in operation, processing manure, slurry, food waste, vegetable waste, and other organic residues. This produces biogas, which can be used to generate heat or electricity. However, depending on the process and the substrates used, the requirements for the process can vary significantly.
This is exactly where CHEMIA BRUGG can provide support. With a broad range of acids, alkalis, iron chlorides and activated carbons, we cover key areas related to the operation of biogas plants and help to keep processes stable and efficient.
An important aspect is the pH regulation in the fermenter. If overacidification occurs, corrective action must be taken to ensure that the biological processes remain in balance. Depending on the process and substrate used, different products may be applied, such as calcium carbonate, Natronlauge 30 % or Natronlauge 50 %. We can also supply liquid media directly by tanker truck.
We also offer suitable solutions for the binding of hydrogen sulfide and for desulfurization. Here, products such as iron(II) chloride and iron(III) chloride are used to specifically bind sulfur compounds and improve gas quality.
Another important area is the binding of ammonia as well as pH stabilization in digestate treatment. Suitable products include sulfuric acid 96 % and sulfuric acid 78 %. These liquid media can also be delivered by tanker truck if required.
In addition, gas treatment also plays an important role. For the remaining removal of hydrogen sulfide as well as siloxanes, possible volatile hydrocarbons and impurities, activated carbons are used, partly in impregnated form. We calculate which activated carbon with which surface area is best suited for the respective system. We also determine whether powdered activated carbon, granular activated carbon or pellets are the most suitable solution.
Our strength lies not only in a broad product range, but also in the flexibility of supply. We have all relevant raw materials available, offer them in various container sizes and can also deliver acids and alkalis in customer-specific quantities.
Ultimately, the right solution depends on the individual plant. Whether alkali or acid is more suitable for pH stabilization depends heavily on the process and the substrates used. In the case of food waste, alkali is generally preferred, whereas slurry usually requires acid.
Anyone who wants to operate biogas plants economically and reliably needs more than standard products. What is required are tailored solutions, reliable delivery capability and a partner who understands the processes.
Biogas is produced through the fermentation of organic materials in the absence of oxygen. Raw materials such as manure, slurry, food waste or plant residues are used. These materials are collected, processed, shredded and mixed into the most homogeneous mass possible.
The material is then transferred into a fermenter. There, microorganisms break down the organic substances in several biological steps. This process is known as anaerobic digestion. During this process, biogas is produced, consisting mainly of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
The resulting biogas can be used for energy generation, for example to produce electricity and heat, or it can be upgraded to biomethane. The so-called digestate remains as a by-product and can often be reused as fertilizer.