Scientists in China have developed a new, lower-cost method to upgrade biogas using a porous material called ZIF-8, increasing methane purity from 60% to over 95%.
Biogas from anaerobic digestion (AD) is naturally low in methane, limiting its commercial viability. Traditional upgrading methods, such as membrane separation and pressure swing adsorption (PSA), are effective but costly and energy-intensive. This new approach could make biomethane, a renewable alternative to natural gas, more competitive with fossil fuels.
The push to scale up biomethane is gaining momentum. UK MP Miatta Fahnbulleh stressed at the ADBA (Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association) National Conference in December 2024 that, “Anaerobic digestion and biomethane allow us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. So we are looking at a transformative decade for this sector.”
What is ZIF-8?
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