Turning manure into energy

Anaerobic digestion relies upon the right workforce of bacteria and methanogens working together. The bacteria breaks down carbon compounds into volatile fatty acids, which methanogens use to convert with hydrogen into methane gas. Methanogens feed off of volatile fatty acids and CO2, using hydrogen as an energy source that together produce methane gas (CH4).

By utilizing the right bacteria with the methanogens, EGE systems are able to produce biogas that is 75%+ percent methane. Our engineering plays a major role along with the right biology that best matches the manure feedstock. After years of research using a Biochemical Methane Potential Test System (BMP), EGE was able to simulate the exact criteria, mixing timings, speeds and operating temperatures. Poultry manures do not naturally produce methane generating bacteria, so we introduce our cultivated bacteria into the digesters. This compliment of bacteria helps the system more effectively break down longer chain bacteria. It took EGE several years to find the right solution, which is included in our US patent.

The understanding of the microbial world is still evolving. Now we understand that Archaea (the class of organisms that methanogens belong to) is not a true bacterium. These biological entities extend our energy production within an anaerobic digester.  Often these bacteria will mutate to suit the feedstocks, but the organisms still require specific living conditions. Overloading with metals or minerals can become toxic, so EGE systems monitor the digester’s diet. A healthy system, operated under standard operational procedures and typical feedstocks enable us to project production capabilities. EGE’s ability to predict actual production enable us to provide a scalable solution to fit every condition. Consistent results are predictable as long as the right blends of nutrients and metals are maintained.  

EGE digesters are engineered specifically to each site and scaled to handle varying types and amounts of feedstocks. Poultry waste and fresh water is fed into the system through a series of temperature controlled mixing, digesting and transfer tanks. The biogas and substrate are then processed through a second digester, where solids and liquids are separated and the biogas is chilled, scrubbed and ready for use. The byproducts of the process 100% organic solid and liquid fertilizers.