Overview of technologies used to clean and upgrade dairy digester biogas into renewable natural gas.
This fact sheet explains how biogas produced from dairy manure anaerobic digesters can be upgraded into higher-value energy products such as renewable natural gas (RNG). Raw biogas generated during anaerobic digestion contains methane along with impurities such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, moisture, and other trace gases. The publication describes why these contaminants must be removed before biogas can be injected into natural gas pipelines or used as vehicle fuel.
The fact sheet reviews several common biogas upgrading and purification technologies used in agricultural digester systems. These include processes that remove hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and other contaminants to increase methane concentration and improve fuel quality. It also discusses potential end uses for upgraded biogas and the role of these technologies in expanding the economic viability of dairy anaerobic digestion systems.
By explaining the principles behind gas cleaning and upgrading systems, the publication helps producers, project developers, and advisors understand how biogas can be converted into renewable natural gas and other energy products.
This publication was produced by Washington State University Extension.
This publication is part of an archive and may not meet current digital accessibility standards. CSANR is working to improve digital accessibility of all materials. If you need this content in an alternative format, please contact csanr@wsu.edu.
Authors
Kennedy, N., Yorgey, G., Frear, C., Evans, D., Jensen, J., and Kruger, C.
Year Published
2024
Areas of Focus
Agricultural Practices, Climate & Environment, and Value from Waste
Topics
Energy, Livestock, Production Systems, and Waste Management
