Name
Pilot-scale demonstration of the DePrex vacuum degassing system for maximizing residual methane extraction. Mitigation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from municipal sewage sludge biogas plant
Description
The optimization of digested sludge processing remains a critical frontier for resource recovery facilities aiming to meet stringent European Net Zero targets. A primary operational challenge in modern sludge treatment is the management of entrained and supersaturated gases within digested sludge. These gases, specifically methane and carbon dioxide, impede downstream processing by inducing foaming, hindering polymer efficiency during dewatering, and contributing significantly to fugitive greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To address these industry-wide challenges, CNP CYCLES GmbH has deployed DePrex® degassing technology, a continuous vacuum degassing technology, in a pilot partnership with Abwasserverband Untermain (AVU) in Kleinostheim, Germany, with funding from the Deutsche Bundesstiung Umwelt (DBU). This paper outlines the engineering principles, installation framework, and ongoing evaluation of the DePrex® pilot project. Integrated into the municipal wastewater treatment infrastructure at AVU, the compact containerized pilot facility is engineered to process digested sludge at a continuous volumetric capacity up to 5 m³/h. Central to the DePrex® process is its controlled negative pressure degassing mechanism, which operates within in an adjustable pressure range between 300 to 150 mbar absolute. By subjecting the viscous sludge matrix to these optimized hypobaric conditions, the system physically removes entrained micro-bubbles and dissolved gases. As the pilot is currently in its active operational phase, this presentation focuses on the methodology and the comprehensive evaluation framework being utilized. Key performance indicator under this investigation the precise volume of methane recovered (preventing fugitive emissions during subsequent storage and handling) in relation to the processed digested sludge flow. By treating the sludge via vacuum degassing, the project anticipates potential improvements in the dry maer (DM) content of the final cake, possibly also through controlled struvite formaon depending on the pH value, which would directly reduce the disposal volume and the associated operang costs. The operational parameters and design insights from the AVU pilot will demonstrate the viability of integrating continuous vacuum degassing into existing municipal infrastructure. Ultimately, this presentation will highlight how the DePrex® system supports the European water sector's transition toward circular economy principles, optimized plant efficiency, and robust GHG mitigation strategies.
Authors
Bernhard Ortwein, CNP CYCLES GmbH, Germany
Jophin Thattil, Thomas Klamp, Bernhard Ortwein, Markus Gerlach, CNP CYCLES GmbH, Germany
Robert Mannion, Evergreen Water Solution Ltd, UK
Jophin Thattil, Thomas Klamp, Bernhard Ortwein, Markus Gerlach, CNP CYCLES GmbH, Germany
Robert Mannion, Evergreen Water Solution Ltd, UK