In the final stage of methanation, micro-organisms convert CO2 and H2
into methane (CH4) and water: this is biological methanation. Because of its
complexity, the in-situ route still involves a number of technological hurdles.
Ex-situ processes, on the other hand, have been technically mastered to date
and have been implemented in a number of ways (biogas purification,
power-to-gas, syngas methanation). While industrial developments are encouraging,
the economic models remain uncertain.
With a view to studying the emerging
potential, particularly in synergy with other renewable gas technologies
(biomethane and hydrogen), the study presents the major trends in anaerobic
digestion, followed by a state-of-the-art review of H2 production, storage and
distribution technologies.
The core of the report is a review of
the state of the art in biological methanation using H2 injection, looking at
biological aspects, operating parameters and reactor types. Industrial players
and their references are presented, as are the main scientific authors. This bibliographical work is supplemented by two feasibility studies: 1/ on the
coupling of methanisation + methanation (150 Nm3/h of biomethane) and 2/ in the
context of a power-to-gas unit (20MWe).
Finally, a study of emerging potential
based on the identification of specific use cases has identified 3 priority
development segments, recommendations for players in the sector and avenues for
further research.
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