Optimization in the dimension and construction of biodigesters

• Grant number: 20/14658-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2021
• End date: September 30, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Production Engineering - Operational Research
• Principal Investigator: Adriana Cristina Cherri
• Grantee: Marcela Taís Bregadioli
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Environmental pollution is a worldwide concern, and numerous researchers seek strategies to minimize this problem's impacts. Among the strategies, in the countryside, rural biodigesters are being used to minimize the environmental damage caused by manure, whether of animal or vegetable origin. The biodigesters are composed of a gasometer and a closed chamber that stores fresh organic matter or biomass to produce combustible gas and biofertilizer. Biogas can be used to generate energy, while biofertilizers can replace commercialized fertilizers. As there are several models of biodigesters, it is necessary to analyze which one must be used considering each specific situation. It is also necessary to dimension the biodigester according to the amount of manure available and the demand for biogas. In this context, this project aims to analyze which type of biodigester should be used according to each property and use optimization models proposed in the literature to evaluate the better dimension. Keeping the structural specifications, analysis of the different possibilities of construction materials available to build them will be carried out, and the best options according to the cost/benefit will be presented. The feasibility of installing a biodigester will be assessed through investment to put it into operation and the return time for this investment. These analyzes will be inserted in a graphical interface to facilitate, assist, and encourage biodigesters' implementation by ruralists. (AU)