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Novel microbial-electrochemical filter with a computer-feedback pH control strategy for upgrading biogas into biomethane
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Novel microbial-electrochemical filter with a computer-feedback pH control strategy for upgrading biogas into biomethane

W. Charles, R. Cord-Ruwisch and G. Ho
Bioresource Technology, Vol.332, Art. 125137
2021
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Abstract

A novel microbial-electrochemical filter was designed and operated based on a combined microbial electrolysis cell and bio-trickling filter principles with the aim to maximize gas–liquid mass-transfer efficiency and minimize costs associated with bubbling biogas through liquid-filled reactor. CO2/biogas feed to the MEF was done via a computer-feedback pH control strategy, linking CO2 feed directly to the OH− production. As a result current efficiency was constant at around 100% throughout the period of experiments. CO2 from biogas was almost completely removed at cathodic pH setpoint of 8.5. Maximum CO2 removal rate was 14.6 L/L/day (equivalent to 29.2 L biogas/L/day). Net energy consumption was around 1.28 kWh/Nm3CO2 or 0.64 kWh/m3 biogas (maximum 49% energy efficiency). An ability to maintain a constant pH means elevated pH from increasing applied potential (current) is no longer an issue. The process can potentially be up-scaled and operated at a much higher current and therefore CO2 removal rate.

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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#7 Affordable and Clean Energy
#13 Climate Action

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Citation topics
3 Agriculture, Environment & Ecology
3.83 Bioengineering
3.83.1487 Microbial Fuel Cell
Web Of Science research areas
Agricultural Engineering
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Energy & Fuels
ESI research areas
Biology & Biochemistry
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