Design and performance of water scrubber and desulfurization system for CO2 and H2S purification of biogas produced from POME

Kusnadi Kusnadi, Mazlan Abdul Wahid, Mohd Fairus Mohd Yasin, Dian Andriani, Arini Wresta, Arifin Santosa, Ahmad Rajani, Tinton Dwi Atmaja, Aep Saepudin, Ahmad Fudholi

Abstract


This study aims to optimize the purification of biogas derived from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) through a comprehensive system utilizing desulfurization and water scrubbing techniques. The primary focus is on reducing the concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2), enhancing the quality and calorific value of methane (CH4) in the biogas. A biogas purification system was constructed, comprising gas conditioning, water scrubber, desulfurization, and water torrents units. The system employed activated carbon and zeolite as absorbents in the desulfurization process. Evaluation of biogas purification performance was conducted using biogas from the PTPN V Sei Pagar Riau biogas power plant, generated from POME. Gas detection sensors were utilized to measure methane, carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and oxygen levels before and after purification. The analysis revealed that the purification system effectively reduced CO2 and H2S concentrations, with over 90% reduction in H2S achieved through the use of activated carbon. Zeolite demonstrated efficient H2S removal due to its porous nature. However, its CO2 removal capacity was limited, possibly due to the absence of prior activation. Activated carbon, known for its strong H2S adsorption capability, proved to be a superior adsorbent. Combining desulfurization with activated carbon and a water scrubber optimized the removal of both H2S and CO2. The combination of activated carbon desulfurization, biogas conditioning, and water scrubber units is recommended for the optimal purification of biogas derived from POME. This arrangement ensures effective removal of H2S before entering gas conditioning and water scrubber units, preventing equipment corrosion. The system achieved a substantial reduction in CO2 levels, leading to a 24.54% decrease. H2S concentrations were reduced by more than 99% through the application of activated carbon. This optimized purification process enhances biogas quality, elevating the calorific value of methane for various applications.


Keywords


Renewable energy, anaerobic digestion, desulfurization system, biogas production, palm oil mill effluent

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DOI (PDF): https://doi.org/10.20508/ijrer.v15i4.14918.g9132

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