Proceedings

Realising the biochemical potential of feedstocks in the circular economy

Smyth, M. – Aqua Enviro

(free)

Anaerobic digestion is an integral part of The Circular Economy and the vast majority of AD plants recycle organic and nutrient rich digestate to land. Very few, if any, AD plants have considered the biochemical potential of the feedstock and how manipulation of the available pathways may add value (or valorise) and deliver alternative end products. There are a number of technologies at various stages of development and based around the manipulation of digester biochemistry and microbiology, that are able to convert organic material in both the feedstock and the digestate into high value materials. These include for instance: short-chain fatty acids, alcohols and ketones that are of high value to the chemical industry, and polyhydroxyalkanoates – of value to the biodegradable plastics industry.
This paper considers:

  • The current situation for AD plants applying digestate to land in the UK now and in
    a future landbank constrained environment.
  • Potential alternative end products to methane and digestate.
  • How an AD facility under the concept of the biorefinery may look in the future.
  • Enablers required to deliver a step change in the way industry approaches
    organics wastes, including knowledge gaps, legislative change requirement and
    current/future funding mechanisms.

The Biosolids conference attracts the most authoritative global experts in the area of biosolids and organic resource handling, treatment and recycling. The programme covers both the latest innovations and updates of existing technologies. Presentations from respected industry experts and newcomers follow the development of technologies and legislation from inception to full-scale installations.

The conference regularly gathers over 200 delegates from all over Europe, many of them return every year both for the technical presentations and fantastic networking opportunities.

Regular conference themes include:

• Thickening and Dewatering
• Modelling Sludge Handling and Utilisation
• Commissioning and Operating Experiences with Thermal Hydrolysis
• Tackling Potential Odour Problems
• Operating Experiences and Potential Problems in Digester Operation
• Ensuring Optimum Energy Recovery from Biogas
• Liquor Treatment and P Removal
• Alternative Products from Sludge
• Enhancing the Value of Biosolids and Digestate
• Pathogens and Pollutants In Digestate
• Sharing Experiences

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