The pressures on the global food supply system continue to mount with regards to the need for properly managing organic waste streams, resource management, as well as minimizing the entire system's environmental footprint. Most traditional methods of disposal are costly and detrimental to the environment. Our company offers innovative bioenergy production systems that resolve these issues by transforming byproducts of the food industry into renewable energy and high-value co-products, thereby aiding the realization of a circular economy.
Fig 1. Utilization of Food Waste for Bioenergy (Preethi M., 2023)
We specialize in providing integrated solutions with bioenergy production systems for the organic residues recovery from food processing, manufacturing, and service sectors into sustainable energy resources. This service includes the advanced technologies of biogas production and upgrading, biodiesel co-production, and microbial fuel cells (MFCs), with focus on not only energy production but also recovering and bioprocessing high-value materials and biochemicals from the process streams.
Technical Principles
We make use of proven chemical and biological principles in our systems:
- Anaerobic Digestion (AD): AD is a biological process where microorganisms metabolically degrade organic materials (food waste, wastewater sludge, and processing residues) in the absence of oxygen and in the process, methane-rich biogas is obtained.
- Biogas Upgrading: The removal of carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and water vapor impurities from raw biogas results in high-purity biomethane, which can be used for grid injection, vehicle fuel, or onsite combined heat and power (CHP) systems.
- Transesterification: A form of lipids, fats, and oils found in food used cooking oil, and animal fat, can be transformed through a chemical reaction with alcohol, typically methanol, in the presence of a catalyst to produce biodiesel (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters - FAMEs) alongside glycerol, which is a valuable co-product.
- Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs): Microorganisms that are electrochemically active directly convert electricity through organic matter into storage chemical energy using metabolic processes at the anode and cathode interfaces.
Technical Features
- Waste Valorization: Turns problematic organic waste streams into assets that generate revenue.
- Resource Recovery: Concentrates on the recovery of energy, precious materials, and compounds.
- Energy Self-Sufficiency: Helps to lower energy costs and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Modular & Scalable: Tailored to a certain volume of feedstock and the individual demands of the client.
- Integrated Approach: The potential to merge several technologies, e.g., anaerobic digestion (AD) with biodiesel co-production for higher productivity.
- Reduced Footprint: Decreased the need and costs associated with disposal into landfills.
Technical Classification
Based on the primary energy output and technology used, bioenergy production systems can be classified as:
- Biogas Systems: Concentrates on anaerobic digestion (AD) and biogas upgrading to biomethane or Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems.
- Liquid Biofuel Systems: Deal mainly with biodiesel production through transesterification and are often accompanied by pre-treatment or AD.
- Bioelectrochemical Systems: Involves the use of MFCs for direct electricity generation which are suitable for certain wastewater streams.
Application Areas
These systems are applicable in food and beverage processing plants which include:
- Dairies, Breweries, Wineries, and fruit/vegetable processing
- Meat Rendering Facilities
- Large scale commercial kitchens and catering businesses
- Agricultural Operations such as manure and crop residue management
- Supermarkets and food distribution centers.
Environmental Benefits
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Captures methane (a potent GHG) and displaces fossil fuel use.
- Waste Diversion: Significantly reduces the volume of organic waste sent to landfills.
- Odor Control: Enclosed systems minimize odor nuisance associated with organic waste decomposition.
- Nutrient Recycling: Digestate from AD can be used as a nutrient-rich biofertilizer, closing nutrient loops.
- Circular Economy Promotion: Transforms waste into valuable resources, aligning with sustainability goals.
Our Services
To ensure successful project implementation and long-term operational excellence, our company provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to your specific requirements. We partner with you from initial concept through to ongoing operation, leveraging our expertise to maximize the value derived from your organic resources. Our specific services include:
Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs)
Company Service Advantages
- Specialized Food Industry Expertise: Deep understanding of diverse food waste streams and their potential.
- Integrated System Philosophy: Focus on holistic solutions combining energy production with high-value co-product recovery.
- Technology Agnosticism: Selecting the best-fit technologies (AD, Biodiesel, MFCs, or combinations) for each unique application.
- Commitment to Innovation: Continuously exploring advancements in bioenergy and resource recovery.
Contact Us
Our bioenergy production systems offer a strategic advantage for food industry players seeking sustainable waste management solutions, enhanced resource efficiency, and new revenue streams. By converting organic byproducts into renewable energy and valuable co-products, we help our clients achieve environmental compliance, reduce operational costs, and strengthen their position in a competitive market. Partner with us to unlock the full potential of your organic resources and transition towards a more sustainable and profitable future.
How to Place an Order
Reference
- Preethi M., Gunasekaran M., et al. "Efficacious Utilization of Food Waste for Bioenergy Generation through the Anaerobic Digestion Method" Processes 2023, 11(3):702.
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
Bioenergy Production Systems
