This report forms part of the basis for assessing the student’s performance in the course

2020

The reject water of any wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) contains carbon dioxide

(CO2) and micro-organisms. The environmental biotechnology research group of the

University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) is trying to develop a sustainable pilot

reactor for reducing CO2 and upgrading biogas by implementing Microbial

Electrosynthesis (MES). The study of an MES reactor is the main purpose of the thesis.

MES method is capable of producing more energy-rich methane by reducing CO2. This

method needs to grow biofilm at the biocathode and supply of electricity. A

bioelectrochemical reactor is designed and needs to integrate into an existing AD biogas

process. A designed MES reactor should be economically feasible and efficient for

execution. In the design, dimensions, parameters, maintenance, safety, and selection of

material are discussed and drawn in 3D. The breakeven point is calculated in terms of

capital expenditure (CAPEX). The efficiency of the pilot design is compared with the

experimental reactor.

The pilot reactor is designed with SS 316 material for vessel and electrodes with a total

cost of 4.24 million NOK. The methane production rate is 119 m3

/day and the breakeven

point is about 8 years. These make this project feasible for commercial use.

University of South-Eastern Norway