Full Title: Climate Tech Book: Anaerobic Digesters
Author(s): Center for Climate and Energy Solutions
Publisher(s): Center for Climate and Energy Solutions
Publication Date: June 1, 2011
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
Anaerobic digestion is a natural process in which bacteria break down organic matter in an oxygen-free environment to form biogas and digestate. A broad range of organic inputs can be used including manure, food waste, and sewage, although the composition is determined by the industry, whether it is agriculture, industrial, wastewater treatment, or others. Anaerobic digesters can be designed for either mesophilic or thermophilic operation – at 35°C (95°F) or 55°C (131°F), respectively. Temperatures are carefully regulated during the digestion process to keep the mesophilic or thermophilic bacteria alive. The resulting biogas is combustible and can be used for heating and electricity generation, or can be upgraded to renewable natural gas and used to power vehicles or supplement the natural gas supply. Digestate can be used as fertilizer.