Production of energy is one of the most crucial challenges facing many countries across the world. Energy production method varies from one point to another but what makes it expensive is the cost of production. Bio gas is one of the most efficient gases that have gained worldwide recognition because of energy production. I know many people will ask what the meaning of the word bio gas is. Here is the answer for you it refers to a gas that is produce when organic matter such as manure, greens or sewage decomposes in absence of oxygen. Many people will call it anaerobic respiration process. Bio gas is a renewable source of energy that can be manufactured regionally through fermentation of decomposable materials such as greens. During production of bio gas the following gases are emitted, Methane gas, carbon dioxide gas, and nitrogen gas. These gases are oxidized by passing them through oxygen to convert them into harmless and useful substances such as heat and electricity.
Production of bio gas
Raw materials required to produce bio gas involves degradable materials such as greens, manure and sewage. These materials are wrapped in a paper which does not allow entry of oxygen gas. Bacteria decompose organic matter through the process of fermentation. Methane gas is produced during the process. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are also emitted from the process. They are further oxidized into harmless substance such as water vapor. Composition of bio gas may vary according to materials used during production.
Bio gas upgrading
This is the process of converting raw bio gas produced into natural gas that can be useful. This process involves the following steps. Water washing, pressure swing and amine gas treatment. Bio gas is then compressed and transported ready for use.
Benefits of bio gas.
1. Reduces global warming.
Bio gas is produce by decomposition of organic matter. Gases produced are not harmful to the environment because they are not chemical in nature. Carbon dioxide produced is oxidized hence reducing its effects to the environment.
2. Conserves the environment.
Bio gas is a natural gas produced through fermentation process. Methane gas is used to produce heat and light in household. This method helps in conserving the natural environment i.e. forest. Many people use trees as sources of firewood. Bio gas can solve these problems in the society therefore protecting the natural environment from depletion.
3. Prevents pollution
Pollutions that are caused by other fuels i.e. petrol and diesel are harmful to the environment. Bio gas on the other hand is harmless since gases produced during production are harmless to the environment. The method of producing bio gas is safe and well secured.
4. Use of organic matter in production
Bio gas is produce when organic matter decomposes to produce methane gas. Organic matter does not contain any chemicals mixed with so as to increase production rate but uses bacteria to decompose the raw materials. This process is non-chemical hence being safe to the environment.
Bio gas should be used as a fuel in many nations because it is cheaper to produce and environmental friendly. It is efficient energy conversion method which can generate enough and renewable source of energy in the society.
Article by Maria, appearing courtesy 2GreenEnergy.