Biogas is produced by the microbial decomposition of substances under anoxic conditions. It consists of approx. 54 % methane and 40 % carbon dioxide (CO2).
CO2 is colorless, odorless and is produced, for example, during the combustion of carbon-containing materials, the production of fertilizers and fermentation.
What conditions do I need to meet to sell my LCO2?
Contaminants are a problem in the utilization of CO2 from biomethane. A European industrial standard has been created specifically for this purpose. This was initiated by the European Industrial Gases Association.
The standard (EIGA DOC 70/17) regulates limit values for impurities in the ppm range, origins and verification. In addition, the Eiga standard requires food safety risk analyses and food safety management systems, which also include the fermentation of substrates. In accordance with the legal requirements, every supplier should introduce a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) system. This hazard analysis identifies critical control points (EIGA Doc 70/17, European Industrial Gases Association AISBL).
What are the marketing criteria for my liquid CO2 ?
- The composition >99.97 Vol.% CO2
- Food grade according to EIGA 70/17
- Pressure approx. 20 bar (g)
- Temperature approx. -30 °C
- Pressure dew point > -55°C
How does the CO2 processing and transport take place?
The CO2 is captured during biogas processing, purified and liquefied with a CO2 plant.
The liquefaction process requires a compressor, which compresses the CO2 to such an extent that it changes into the liquid state of aggregation.
The CO2 can then be delivered to industry in special tanker trucks for further use instead of being released unused into the atmosphere.
What are the financial benefits of CO2 capture and LCO2 Production?
In order for the sale of CO₂ to be financially viable, market participants should produce at least 2,500-5,000 t/a and take the market environment into account. If the purchase is from a regional bulk buyer, prices of up to €50/t can be achieved. It should be noted that, compared to the winter months, there is a significantly higher demand for CO2 from bulk buyers on the market in the summer months. This is due to increased consumption of, for example, carbonated drinks, dry ice and refrigerants.
How are emissions savings achieved through carbon capture and reuse?
The CO2 reduction is referred to as the greenhouse gas reduction quota (GHG quota). Producers of fossil fuels are required by law to reduce their greenhouse gases. If they cannot achieve this to the required extent, they must pay penalties as compensation. This is shown as a percentage and explains the marketing of sustainable fuels in relation to the total volume (including fossil fuels). Currently, the GHG quota is 7% and is expected to increase within 8 years to 25% by 2030 (https://ibbk-biogas.com/thg-quote, 11.08.2022).
What is the role of the Renewable Energy Directive II (Red II)?
The types of substrates fed into the biogas plant play an important role in the remuneration. Care should be taken to ensure that not only NawaRo's are used; advanced substrates such as liquid manure/dung should be used. The RED II defines whether it is a sustainable biofuel.
If CO2 is captured and liquefied (Carbon Capture Utilization, CCU/ Carbon Capture Recycling, CCR) or geologically stored (Carbon Capture Storage, CCS), a bonus in the form of negative emissions is added to the GHG balance. For example, the average GHG value of slurry/manure is -100 g CO2/MJ. If CO2 liquefaction takes place, a further -30 to 50 g CO2/ MJ are taken into account. An individual calculation of the savings often makes sense here.
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