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A simplified biogas upgrading system for rural applications: Enhancing biomethane production through efficient carbon dioxide removal
 
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Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Faculty of Science, Lampang Rajabhat University, Muang, Lampang 52100, Thailand
 
 
Autor do korespondencji
Phimphaka Phothilangka   

Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Faculty of Science, Lampang Rajabhat University, Muang, Lampang 52100, Thailand
 
 
J. Ecol. Eng. 2026; 27(5)
 
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STRESZCZENIE
Biogas is increasingly recognized as a key renewable energy source for decentralized power generation, particularly in rural and agricultural communities worldwide. However, the direct use of raw biogas, typically containing high levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂), results in low heating value, reduced thermal efficiency, and operational problems such as equipment corrosion and clogging. Enhancing biogas quality through cost-effective CO₂ removal is therefore essential for maximizing energy output and improving system reliability, especially in resource-limited settings. This study proposes a simple, low-cost, and practical upgrading process suitable for decentralized biogas systems by employing adsorption and absorption techniques using readily available materials. Experiments were conducted with a fixed-bed adsorption column and a packed-column scrubber using wood chips, diatomite, activated carbon, sodium hydroxide solution, calcium carbonate, ethylamine, and water. The fixed-bed adsorption system using sodium-hydroxide-coated wood chips at a flow rate of 10–15 L/min achieved a CO₂ removal efficiency of 68%, increasing methane concentration to 79.6 (±0.9)%. The packed-column scrubber using 0.5 M NaOH demonstrated a comparable CO₂ removal efficiency of 66%, yielding upgraded biogas with 85 (±3)% methane. The NaOH solution remained effective for 50–60 minutes before reaching saturation. The resulting upgraded biogas exhibited a methane content exceeding 80% and an average heating value of 29.11 MJ/m³. Moreover, increasing NaOH concentration further enhanced CO₂ removal and methane purity. The findings highlight the potential of simple, locally sourced adsorption and absorption systems to deliver significant improvements in biogas quality, offering a viable pathway for boosting energy efficiency, extending equipment lifespan, and supporting sustainable energy development in rural and off-grid communities worldwide.
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