A versatile modular plant for converting biogas into advanced biofuels

Abstract

The patented technology is a novel, portable, non-invasive, and flexible technical solution for converting biogas into valuable chemical compounds, such as bio-methanol and bio-dimethyl ether (bio-DME). It consists of compact modules, connected to each other through a flange-valve-flange system, to be installed downstream of an existing traditional biogas plant.The two main sections of the module are those of reforming and synthesis: in the first, the biogas is converted into bio-syngas (H2/CO/CO2), while in the second the bio-syngas is transformed into advanced biofuels such as bio-methanol and bio-DME. Parts of the synthesis module can always be changed with small investments to switch the final products, according to local market needs and price volatilities. Downstream in the synthesis section, it is possible to add a module for separating and purifying the chemical products.The technology has been validated at the 0.15 MWe industrial scale.