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Updated: May 28, 2026
07:34
Biogas Purification through the use of a Microalgae-Bacterial System in Semi-Industrial High Rate Algal Ponds
Published on: March 22, 2024
Advanced Strategies for Upgrading Raw Biogas into High-Quality Biomethane for Domestic Applications
Reckson Kamusoko1, Patrick Mukumba1
1Computational Science Department, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, P. Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Biogas purification is crucial for using renewable energy in homes. Novel upgrading technologies like cryogenic separation and biological upgrading, combined with process control, enhance methane purity and efficiency for decentralized energy systems.
Area of Science:
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Biogas from anaerobic digestion is a promising renewable energy source.
- Raw biogas contains impurities (CO2, H2S, water vapor) that limit its use.
- Purification to high-grade biomethane (≥95% CH4) is essential for safe domestic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and evaluate novel biogas upgrading technologies for domestic applications.
- To focus on low-cost, small-scale solutions for rural and off-grid systems.
- To examine process optimization and control for enhanced methane recovery.
Main Methods:
- Review of conventional upgrading technologies (water/chemical scrubbing, PSA, membranes, cryogenics, biological).
- Evaluation of innovative and hybrid separation technologies.
- Analysis of process optimization, intelligent monitoring, and data-driven control.
Main Results:
- Conventional technologies (scrubbing, PSA, membranes) dominate but have high costs and energy needs.
- Advanced technologies (cryogenic, biological, hybrid) coupled with optimized control improve CH4 purity and energy efficiency.
- Small-scale, low-cost solutions are emphasized for rural decentralized systems.
Conclusions:
- Innovative biogas upgrading strategies can significantly enhance methane purity and process efficiency.
- Optimized process control is key to maximizing CH4 recovery and consistency.
- Biomethane adoption as a clean, sustainable energy source is promoted, especially in developing regions.
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