A Proof of Concept project at CPI: Novel tubular technology for improved small scale anaerobic digestion

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Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is a process in which microorganisms break down organic matter, in the absence of oxygen, into biogas (a mixture of carbon dioxide and methane) and digestate. The biogas can be used directly in engines for heat and power or can be cleaned and used in the same way as natural gas or as a vehicle fuel. The digestate can be used as a fertiliser or soil conditioner. AD is an effective way to treat organic wastes – such as food wastes, animal slurries and waste crop residues. The UK Coalition Agreement (2010) sets out a goal for a huge uptake in anaerobic digestion capacity.Currently, AD is carried out in large tanks that can be expensive, bulky and often inefficient.CPI is developing a novel concept for a tubular reactor that, it is hoped, will be shown to be more efficient, take up less space and have a lower purchase price. CPI is patenting this idea and has built a prototype system that will be used to prove the concept.The project will deliver a scientific appraisal of the technology, alongside a design andexploitation package that will potentially lead to an innovative high-value product beingdeveloped by UK plc.