Title:
Evaluation of Low-Cost Enhanced Biodigesters for Public Use in Rural Societies in Colombia
Author(s):
Peterson, E.C., Villegas, M.F., Langeveld, J.W.A., Quist-Wessel, P.M.F.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
Biogas production offers huge perspectives for smallholders in isolated rural areas where it can generate renewable energy as well as essential organic fertilizers, provided farmers have sufficient biomass and access to robust, ready-to-use technologies. To improve biogas technology accessibility in Colombia, a novel modular microdigester design has been developed based on affordable local materials, together with an open-source manual for construction and operation, with a focus on reduction of operational costs, thereby improving farmer self-reliance and reducing dependence on fossil fuels and artificial fertilizers. We present early examples of biodigester prototypes and define efforts for further optimization, including modifications to allow mixing, while considering biomethane potential for different foodwaste samples (997-1117 mL biogas/gVS,) and biodigester effluents nutrient content analysis ([NH4+]= 446 mg/L, [PO4-3]=588 mg/L). This work will contribute to the development of an economic, robust, small-scale biodigester that can provide energy and bio-fertilizer to smallholders in isolated, energy-deprived, regions of Colombia and elsewhere.
Keywords:
anaerobic digestion, biogas, small scale application
Topic:
Biomass Conversion Technologies for Heating, Cooling and Electricity
Subtopic:
Anaerobic digestion for biogas production
Event:
25th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
2CV.4.16
Pages:
898 - 901
ISBN:
978-88-89407-17-2
Paper DOI:
10.5071/25thEUBCE2017-2CV.4.16
Price:
FREE
