Digester 2.0: Optimization of the anaerobic digestion process for biogas generation
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Anaerobic digestion produces methane-rich biogas streams for energy generation. This experiment aims to prove an optimal energy balance can be obtained in small-scale digesters. A computational modeling solution is developed to simulate digesters and support energy balance design and optimization.
Start date: 01/11/2015
Duration in months: 18
Problem Description
Anaerobic digestion is carried out industrially using large full tanks. This experiment aims to prove via simulation and modelling that an optimal energy balance between energy consumption and production can be achieved in small-scale anaerobic digesters.
Goals
New services
Challenges
There currently is no HPC integrated model for the design of anaerobic digesters considering flow and biological aspects. Due to the scales involved in the process the numerical solution of this coupled problem is very complex. Highly refined meshes are needed, resulting in large computation times.
Innovation results
A new open-source based solution that allows the simulation of flow (fluid dynamics) and biological aspects of an anaerobic digester was developed within the framework of the Digester 2.0 experiment.
Business impact
Norvento has reduced the volume and cost of industrial anaerobic digesters, increasing biogas production and reducing energy consumption, leading to a 5% increase in thermal and electrical production, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and potential growth in energy efficiency services.