Sustainable energy production and valuable nutrient recovery
Optimise the fertilisation of organic waste with the right biogas plants
TEWE has the expertise to efficiently and sustainably convert commercial food waste into biogas and high-quality fertiliser in state-of-the-art biogas plants. These plants have been operating successfully for decades in numerous projects – particularly in Japan – and offer innovative solutions for the trouble-free conversion of organic waste from industry and commerce into renewable energy and marketable fertilisers.
Raw material utilisation and composition
A significant amount of food waste is produced throughout the entire production and supply chain. In addition to food scraps and unsold products, this also includes inedible components such as nut and fruit shells, coffee grounds, and bones. This waste is often produced during primary production (2%), food processing (14%), retail (7%) and out-of-home catering (17%). Biogas plants allow this waste to be sustainably utilised in commercial applications instead of going unused and being disposed of at a high cost.
Optimising process conditions
The high energy density of food waste makes it ideal for biogas production. The composition of the waste is key as different substrates produce different quantities of methane. TEWE take a targeted approach to optimise process conditions in order to maximise methane yield and ensure efficient biogas production. The digestate produced here can be used in a wide variety of areas and is increasingly used in horticulture in Japan and other countries, and as a fertiliser for domestic gardens, which closes the nutrient cycle in commerce.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
Anaerobic fermentation – an oxygen-free process – produces high-quality biogas from food waste. The quality and quantity of the generated biogas depend on the biowaste used and the design of the plant. Depending on the type of waste and the process used, the biogas yield is 100–200 Nm³ per kilogram, with an energy content of 5.0–7.5 kWh/Nm³, or 14–26 MJ/Nm³. The decomposition rate of the organic material can also vary between 60% and 90% depending on the process conditions, which significantly increases the utilisation rate and minimises waste.
The energetic use of food waste aids in cost-effective energy production and reduces methane emissions which would otherwise be produced by waste storage. What’s more, the recovery of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous ensure that the commercial sector has access to sustainable and effective fertilisers. This supports a resource-saving circular economy and reduces dependence on conventional fertilisers.
Processing and increased efficiency
Before fermentation, the food waste is thoroughly treated to remove foreign bodies such as plastic and metal and prepare the substrates for stable fermentation. Homogenisation of the substrate promotes microbial activity and consistent, efficient biogas production. Breaking up the cell structures further increases the fermentation performance of the plant. The use of a hygienisation system also allows waste products such as slaughterhouse waste to be used.
In conclusion: Sustainable solutions for industry and commerce
Biogas plants for the exploitation of commercial food waste offer major ecological and economical benefits. They reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and significantly cut methane emissions. The fertiliser produced improves soil quality in commercial applications such as horticulture and closes the nutrient cycle.
TEWE’s plant construction expertise enables precise planning and implementation of biogas plants which are adapted to the special requirements of the commercial sector. These plants promote sustainable use of resources and offer companies a stable energy source and sustainable ways of exploiting organic waste.
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