Bioengineered bioreactors: a review on enhancing biomethane and biohydrogen production by CFD modeling

ABSTRACT

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is numerical strategy developed for simulating the behavior of liquid and gas flow. CFD may be applied starting from aerospace, engine design, vehicle aerodynamics, power plants and chemical industries for analyzing and solving relevant system design and process issues. Biogas produced during anaerobic digestion (AD) is sustainable and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. AD may improve the controlled production of biogas and offers significant environmental benefits. This review focuses on research outcomes relevant for enhanced biogas production by exploring the possible applications of CFD in AD technology. CFD-related research performed in AD conditions in order to improve mixing performance, reduce power consumption, and understand the effects of total solid (TS) concentrations on flow behavior have been discussed. In addition, the use of AD for bio-hydrogen production, wastewater treatment, and sludge treatment are looked in. This review also identifies novel areas for AD technology advancement where there is potential for economic improvement in renewable energy production. Finally, future research needs have been identified, focusing on the opportunities to integrate conceptual and mathematical models for advancing CFD simulations for bioenergy.

KEYWORDS:

• CFD simulation
• methane
• bioenergy
• biomass
• biogas
• power consumption

Acknowledgments

AK acknowledges fellowship from Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, and facilities at Centre for Energy and Environment, Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur India. VV is thankful to Department of Biotechnology (No. BT/RLF/Reentry/ 04/2013) Government of India for financial support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).