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Biogas Valorisation to Biomethane for Commercialisation in South Africa: A Review

Author

Listed:
  • Chipo Shonhiwa

    (Physics Department, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa)

  • Yolanda Mapantsela

    (Physics Department, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa)

  • Golden Makaka

    (Physics Department, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa)

  • Patrick Mukumba

    (Physics Department, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa)

  • Ngwarai Shambira

    (Physics Department, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa)

Abstract

Biogas consists of mainly methane, as a source of energy, and impurities such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, water, and siloxanes. These impurities, such as hydrogen sulphide, reduce the biogas energy content and corrode equipment that store, transport, or utilise biogas. Several reviews on upgrading biogas to biomethane have been published, but minimal focus has been put on upgrading biogas for commercialisation in South Africa. Thus, this study reviewed biogas upgrading techniques in South Africa to put together information on activities and experiences on biogas valorisation to enhance the chances for different stakeholders to learn and build on from local experiences. To capture all relevant information, literature from the past 10 years was retrieved from online databases and government, municipality, and companies’ websites and institutional repositories. The review covered the sorption, separation, and in situ techniques that are globally used for upgrading biogas. The status of the biogas sector and the upgrading activities that occur in the country with their cost, energy, and environmental impacts were given in detail. It is estimated that a total of 3 million Nm 3 d −1 of biogas can be produced in the country from biogas substrates. Thus, researchers and entrepreneurs are encouraged to collaborate to utilise the abundant resources used for biogas production to enhance the commercialisation of biomethane.

Suggested Citation

  • Chipo Shonhiwa & Yolanda Mapantsela & Golden Makaka & Patrick Mukumba & Ngwarai Shambira, 2023. "Biogas Valorisation to Biomethane for Commercialisation in South Africa: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(14), pages 1-20, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:14:p:5272-:d:1190451
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Christopher Schmid & Thomas Horschig & Alexandra Pfeiffer & Nora Szarka & Daniela Thrän, 2019. "Biogas Upgrading: A Review of National Biomethane Strategies and Support Policies in Selected Countries," Energies, MDPI, vol. 12(19), pages 1-24, October.
    2. Mulu, Elshaday & M'Arimi, Milton M. & Ramkat, Rose C., 2021. "A review of recent developments in application of low cost natural materials in purification and upgrade of biogas," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 145(C).
    3. Pardon Nyamukamba & Patrick Mukumba & Evernice Shelter Chikukwa & Golden Makaka, 2020. "Biogas Upgrading Approaches with Special Focus on Siloxane Removal—A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(22), pages 1-17, November.
    4. Seman, S.Z.A. & Idris, I. & Abdullah, A. & Shamsudin, I.K. & Othman, M.R., 2019. "Optimizing purity and recovery of biogas methane enrichment process in a closed landfill," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 131(C), pages 1117-1127.
    5. Lombardi, Lidia & Francini, Giovanni, 2020. "Techno-economic and environmental assessment of the main biogas upgrading technologies," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 156(C), pages 440-458.
    6. Ardolino, F. & Cardamone, G.F. & Parrillo, F. & Arena, U., 2021. "Biogas-to-biomethane upgrading: A comparative review and assessment in a life cycle perspective," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 139(C).
    7. Francis Kemausuor & Muyiwa S. Adaramola & John Morken, 2018. "A Review of Commercial Biogas Systems and Lessons for Africa," Energies, MDPI, vol. 11(11), pages 1-21, November.
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