The-biogas-handbook-Science-production-and-applications

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Preface
detailed information on the whole biogas process chain and thereby to be a
sound basis for readers with at least a basic understanding of science or
engineering who want to become knowledgeable in the field of biogas. The
level is aimed at degree and masters level students, project planners, policy
makers and regulators. As a handbook, it contains a breadth and depth of
knowledge on biogas processes but can also be considered as a starting point
in a detailed study or project and a point of access to a wide range of further
expert sources of information. Many references are given for further reading
for those needing to go deeper into a particular subject. The individual
chapters have been written by the best known experts in the respective fields.
The book considers all aspects in the chain from the origin of the biomass
feedstocks, feedstock selection and preparation, the anaerobic digestion
process, biogas plant equipment design and operation, through to utilisation
of the biogas for energy production and the residue, the digestate, which can
be used as a biofertiliser. Biogas utilisation is addressed with respect to
combined heat and power and upgrading to natural gas equivalent
biomethane for transport applications and injection into the natural gas
grid. The book also addresses environmental impacts and commercial
market applications such as trading of green certificates.
The editors are indebted to members of the International Energy Agency,
Bioenergy Implementing Agreement, Task 37 (Energy from Biogas) and to
other experts in the biogas field who have contributed to the 19 chapters of
this handbook. Their dedication is thankfully acknowledged.
The editors are convinced that the biogas sector will continue to grow and
make its contribution to renewable energy generation and reducing negative
impacts on the environment, both in the form of GHG emissions and the
pollution of soil and water courses. Biogas technologies will doubtless
continue to expand for the treatment of biodegradable waste. There are also
well accepted opportunities for growth in the use of purpose-grown crops
for biogas production where substantially better energy yield is achievable
than for the production of liquid biofuels from the same crops. Finally,
emerging research is showing the potential for biogas and/or biomethane to
contribute to meeting energy demand from grids that are increasingly
supplied by strongly fluctuating inputs from wind or solar.
David Baxter, Petten, The Netherlands
Arthur Wellinger, Aadorf, Switzerland
Jerry Murphy, Cork, Ireland
© Woodhead Publishing Limited, 2013