Carbon and energy capture from biogas for the production of biochemicals

In order to curb America’s dependence on petroleum and increase reliance on domestic, alternative sources of energy, there is a strong emphasis on using biogas. There is still a significant potential in developing biogas as a resource not only for energy, but also for chemicals. In this proposal, Sasya will demonstrate how biogas could be used to produce energy and chemicals. We propose a simple, innovative approach that allows for the biological conversion of carbon dioxide in biogas into high-value chemicals followed by the combustion of methane to generate energy. The resulting CO2 will be captured and recycled into the bioreactor. During Phase I, we will demonstrate the proof-of-concept for the biological and chemical conversion of biogas into building blocks for polymer industry. We will also analyze the process for technical and economic feasibility using a model. We will use the model to serve as the guide to select optimal technology that will allow for the minimum Capital and Operational Expenses. This concept is simple and can be implemented for the production of biofuels as well. G iven that synergy with waste treatment facilities and ethanol plants, this project is ideally suited to be co- sited with either of these facilities and therefore, increasing their profitability. Sasya’s project provides a meaningful way to convert the waste generated from municipal and waste water treatments as well as ethanol plants into high-value building blocks that are used to produce polymers. In a very realistic way, this project addresses waste management, promises to reverse global warming while at the same time providing freedom from petroleum by depending on domestic, alternative sources of carbon.