WO2019243664A1 - Device and method for treating biomass - Google Patents

Device and method for treating biomass Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019243664A1
WO2019243664A1 PCT/FI2019/050463 FI2019050463W WO2019243664A1 WO 2019243664 A1 WO2019243664 A1 WO 2019243664A1 FI 2019050463 W FI2019050463 W FI 2019050463W WO 2019243664 A1 WO2019243664 A1 WO 2019243664A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cylindrical drum
biomass
water
stationary shell
water bed
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FI2019/050463
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jouni NISKANEN
Jussi JÄRVENPÄÄ
Kimmo NISKANEN
Arto TIAINEN
Original Assignee
Eneferm Oy
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Eneferm Oy filed Critical Eneferm Oy
Publication of WO2019243664A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019243664A1/en

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Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M27/00—Means for mixing, agitating or circulating fluids in the vessel
    • C12M27/10—Rotating vessel
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F11/00—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor
    • C02F11/02—Biological treatment
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C05—FERTILISERS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF
    • C05F—ORGANIC FERTILISERS NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C05B, C05C, e.g. FERTILISERS FROM WASTE OR REFUSE
    • C05F17/00—Preparation of fertilisers characterised by biological or biochemical treatment steps, e.g. composting or fermentation
    • C05F17/40—Treatment of liquids or slurries
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C05—FERTILISERS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF
    • C05F—ORGANIC FERTILISERS NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C05B, C05C, e.g. FERTILISERS FROM WASTE OR REFUSE
    • C05F17/00—Preparation of fertilisers characterised by biological or biochemical treatment steps, e.g. composting or fermentation
    • C05F17/90—Apparatus therefor
    • C05F17/921—Devices in which the material is conveyed essentially horizontally between inlet and discharge means
    • C05F17/929—Cylinders or drums
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C05—FERTILISERS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF
    • C05F—ORGANIC FERTILISERS NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C05B, C05C, e.g. FERTILISERS FROM WASTE OR REFUSE
    • C05F17/00—Preparation of fertilisers characterised by biological or biochemical treatment steps, e.g. composting or fermentation
    • C05F17/90—Apparatus therefor
    • C05F17/964—Constructional parts, e.g. floors, covers or doors
    • C05F17/971—Constructional parts, e.g. floors, covers or doors for feeding or discharging materials to be treated; for feeding or discharging other material
    • C05F17/986—Constructional parts, e.g. floors, covers or doors for feeding or discharging materials to be treated; for feeding or discharging other material the other material being liquid
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M21/00—Bioreactors or fermenters specially adapted for specific uses
    • C12M21/04—Bioreactors or fermenters specially adapted for specific uses for producing gas, e.g. biogas
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M23/00—Constructional details, e.g. recesses, hinges
    • C12M23/02—Form or structure of the vessel
    • C12M23/06—Tubular
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M27/00—Means for mixing, agitating or circulating fluids in the vessel
    • C12M27/18—Flow directing inserts
    • C12M27/20—Baffles; Ribs; Ribbons; Auger vanes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M33/00—Means for introduction, transport, positioning, extraction, harvesting, peeling or sampling of biological material in or from the apparatus
    • C12M33/16—Screw conveyor
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M41/00—Means for regulation, monitoring, measurement or control, e.g. flow regulation
    • C12M41/12—Means for regulation, monitoring, measurement or control, e.g. flow regulation of temperature
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
    • A01C3/00—Treating manure; Manuring
    • A01C3/02—Storage places for manure, e.g. cisterns for liquid manure; Installations for fermenting manure
    • A01C3/023—Digesters
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F11/00—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor
    • C02F11/12—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor by de-watering, drying or thickening
    • C02F11/13—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor by de-watering, drying or thickening by heating
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F11/00—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor
    • C02F11/18—Treatment of sludge; Devices therefor by thermal conditioning
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P20/00—Technologies relating to chemical industry
    • Y02P20/141—Feedstock
    • Y02P20/145—Feedstock the feedstock being materials of biological origin
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
    • Y02W10/00—Technologies for wastewater treatment
    • Y02W10/20—Sludge processing
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
    • Y02W30/00—Technologies for solid waste management
    • Y02W30/40—Bio-organic fraction processing; Production of fertilisers from the organic fraction of waste or refuse

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to treating biomass, and particularly to a device for treating biomass.
  • the present disclosure further concerns a method for treating biomass.
  • Document DE 10306988 A1 discloses a fermentation vessel.
  • the fermentation vessel rotates while floating on water.
  • the vessel is held by wood rotary mounting at its ends, and the water level is set to take up any load on the mountings while it is rotated on rollers or carriers.
  • the fermentation vessel is cylindrical, with a biomass feed with a feed pipe and a residue extraction with a disposal pipe.
  • the pipes are coaxial to the vessel, at opposite ends and turn to rotate the vessel through drives at the pipes.
  • the water temperature is controlled by an immersion heater.
  • a problem with the known fermentation vessel is that because the water, where the fermentation vessel floats, is exposed to the atmosphere, heat is continuously escaped from the water bed and thus the energy efficiency of the fermentation process is poor.
  • Another problem is that the fermentation vessel needs to be supported below the vessel, which causes friction and thus requires more energy to rotate the fermentation vessel.
  • An object of the present disclosure is to provide a device and a method utilizing the device so as to overcome the above problems.
  • the disclosure is based on the idea of arranging the water bed, where a cylindrical drum acting as biomass treatment reactor floats, inside a closed shell so that the cylindrical drum is fully enclosed by the shell and providing the shell with an insulation layer for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed through the stationary shell.
  • An advantage of the device and the method of the disclosure is that they provide the biomass treatment process with an improved energy efficiency because the heat of the water bed is retained inside the shell. Another advantage is that because the cylindrical drum floats in the water bed, the amount energy needed for rotating the cylindrical drum is smaller.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure
  • Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • Figure is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • the disclosure relates to a device for continuous treating of biomass.
  • the device is a biomass digester, a biomass reactor, a biomass drier, or a device for hygienizing biomass.
  • the device comprises a stationary shell 1 arranged to be filled at least partially with water for providing a water bed 7.
  • the stationary shell 1 is closed for retaining the heat of the water bed inside the stationary shell 1 .
  • the stationary shell 1 is provided with an insulation layer 1 1 for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed 7 through the stationary shell 1 .
  • the stationary shell 1 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the device comprises a cylindrical drum 2 arranged inside the stationary shell 1 rotatably about is central axis in relation to the stationary shell 1 .
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to receive biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to be submerged at least partially in the water bed 7 when the stationary shell 1 is at least partially filled with water for providing buoyancy to the cylindrical drum 2.
  • Preferably the cylindrical drum 2 is submerged in the water bed 7 in such way that the buoyancy provided by the water bed 7 to the cylindrical drum 2 is in balance with the weight of the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the buoyancy of the cylindrical drum 2 can be adjusted by adjusting the water level in the water bed 7.
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is closed for preventing the water of the water bed 7 from contacting biomass received inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to be fully enclosed by the stationary shell 1 .
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is made of metal for improving heat transmission between the water bed 7 and the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the cylindrical drum 2 is provided with a screw conveyor means 23 for conveying biomass from the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 to the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates.
  • the screw conveyor means 23 is arranged at the inner surface 24 of the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the screw conveyor means 23 comprises a plurality of screw sections. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 2.
  • the device comprises an inlet means 4 arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum 2 for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum 2 at a first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 and for supporting the cylindrical drum 2 at the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the inlet means 4 is supported by the stationary shell 1 and the inlet means 4 comprises a first tubular member 41 , an inlet screw conveyor 42 arranged inside the first tubular member 41 and connected to a biomass supply for conveying biomass from the biomass supply to the cylindrical drum 2, and an inlet bearing 43 arranged around the first tubular member 41 for supporting the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the inlet means 4 is provided with a fluid feeding means 44 for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the fluid fed into the cylindrical drum 2 is steam, sourcing inoculum in liquid form, or an agent for adjusting pH of the biomass. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 3.
  • the device comprises an outlet means 5 arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum 2 for feeding biomass out of the cylindrical drum 2 at a second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 and for supporting the cylindrical drum 2 at the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the outlet means 5 is supported by the stationary shell 1 and the outlet means 5 comprises a second tubular member 51 , an outlet screw conveyor 52 arranged inside the second tubular member 51 , and an outlet bearing 53 arranged around the second tubular member 51 for supporting the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the outlet means 5 is provided with a gas recovering means 54 for recovering gas from inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the gas recovered from inside the cylindrical drum 2 is biogas or steam or a mixture of steam and ammonia. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 3.
  • the device comprises a rotating means 6 for rotating the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the rotating means 6 comprises an electric motor connected to the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the device comprises a temperature adjusting means 8 for adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7.
  • the temperature adjusting means 8 comprises a heater and/or a cooler.
  • the purpose of adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7 is to provide the cylindrical drum 2 with optimal thermal conditions for treating biomass. In some situations, such as in cold climatic conditions, the water bed 7 needs to be heated, and in some situations the biological process inside the cylindrical drum 2 is so exothermic that the water bed needs to be cooled in order to sustain optimal thermal conditions.
  • the device comprises a hollow tubular member 31 arranged inside the cylindrical drum 2 and connected to the cylindrical drum 2 for rotating the hollow tubular member 31 in tandem with the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the hollow tubular member 31 is connected to the outer surface 25 of the cylindrical drum 2 by at least one hollow connecting member 33 for providing a fluid connection between the water bed 7 and the inner volume of the hollow tubular member 31 for allowing the water of the water bed 7 to enter and exit the hollow tubular member 31 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates while preventing contact of water of the water bed 7 in with the biomass.
  • the water of the water bed 7 enters and exits the hollow tubular member 31 via the hollow connecting member 33 and thus transmits heat to the hollow tubular member 31 and onwards to the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the purpose of the hollow tubular member 31 is to provide more even heat transmission from the water bed 7 to the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 4.
  • the device comprises a hollow tubular member 31 arranged inside the cylindrical drum 2 and connected to the cylindrical drum 2 for rotating the hollow tubular member 31 in tandem with the cylindrical drum 2.
  • a conveyor screw 32 is arranged at the outer surface of the hollow tubular member 31 for conveying biomass from the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 towards the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates.
  • the screw conveyor means 23 convey biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2 from the first end 21 to the second end 22, and simultaneously, the conveyor screw 32 conveys a part of the biomass at the second end 22 towards the first end 21 , for circulating biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the purpose of circulating biomass is to provide the first end 21 with bacteria existing at the second end 22 and thus improving the treatment of biomass in the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the hollow tubular member 31 may be connected to the outer surface 25 of the cylindrical drum 2 by at least one hollow connecting member 33 for providing a fluid connection between the water bed 7 and the inner volume of the hollow tubular member 31 for allowing the water of the water bed 7 to enter and exit the hollow tubular member 31 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates while preventing contact of water of the water bed 7 in with the biomass.
  • This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 5.
  • the disclosure relates also to a method for treating biomass.
  • the treatment is digesting biomass for producing biogas, separating nitrogen from biomass, drying biomass or hygienizing biomass.
  • the method comprises a providing step for providing a device as described above.
  • the method comprises a filling step for filling the stationary shell 1 at least partially with water for providing a water bed 7.
  • the stationary shell 1 is filled with water in such way that the buoyancy provided by the water bed 7 to the cylindrical drum 2 is in balance with the weight of the cylindrical drum 2 and the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the method comprises a temperature adjusting step for adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7 to 20 to 100 °C, such as 20 to 60 °C or 60 to 100 °C.
  • the temperature is preferably 20 to 60 °C.
  • the temperature is preferably 60 to 100 °C.
  • the temperature adjusting step is performed using the temperature adjusting means 8.
  • the method comprises a first feeding step for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the first feeding step is performed using the inlet means 4, for example the inlet screw conveyor 42.
  • biomass is fed into the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
  • the method comprises a second feeding step for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the second feeding step is performed using the fluid feeding means 44.
  • the fluid fed in the second feeding step is steam, hot air, sourcing inoculum in liquid form or an agent for adjusting pH of the biomass.
  • the fluid is sourcing inoculum or an agent for adjusting pH, and when the treatment is nitrogen separation, biomass drying or hygienizing, the fluid is steam or hot air.
  • the method comprises a treating step for treating the biomass in the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 by exposing biomass to suitable temperature and dwell time for promoting growth of bacteria, which in turn convert biomass into biogas.
  • biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 by exposing biomass to heat for example provided by steam for separating nitrogen from biomass as ammonia.
  • biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
  • the method comprises a first recovering step for recovering treated biomass from the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the first recovering step is performed using outlet means 5, for example the outlet screw conveyor 52.
  • biomass is recovered from the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
  • the method comprises a second recovering step for recovering gas from the cylindrical drum 2.
  • the second recovering step is performed using the gas recovering means 54.
  • biomass is converted into treated biomass and biogas
  • biogas is recovered from the cylindrical drum 2.
  • nitrogen is separated from the biomass as ammonia by heat provided by steam, and in the second recovering step, ammonia and steam are recovered from the cylindrical drum 2.

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Abstract

The disclosure relates to a device and also to a method for continuous treating of biomass, comprising a stationary shell (1) arranged to be filled at least partially with water for providing a water bed (7); a cylindrical drum (2) arranged inside the stationary shell (1) rotatably about is central axis in relation to the stationary shell (1), wherein the cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to receive biomass inside the cylindrical drum (2), and the cylindrical drum (2) is arranged to be submerged at least partially in the water bed (7) when the stationary shell (1) is at least partially filled with water for providing buoyancy to the cylindrical drum (2); an inlet means (4) and an outlet means (5) arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum (2) for feeding biomass out of the cylindrical drum; and a temperature adjusting means (8) and the cylindrical drum (2) is arranged to be fully enclosed by the stationary shell (1); and the stationary shell (1) is provided with an insulation layer (11) for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed (7) through the stationary shell (1).

Description

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATING BIOMASS
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present disclosure relates to treating biomass, and particularly to a device for treating biomass. The present disclosure further concerns a method for treating biomass.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Document DE 10306988 A1 discloses a fermentation vessel. For the continuous fermentation of a biomass, to yield a biogas, the fermentation vessel rotates while floating on water. The vessel is held by wood rotary mounting at its ends, and the water level is set to take up any load on the mountings while it is rotated on rollers or carriers. The fermentation vessel is cylindrical, with a biomass feed with a feed pipe and a residue extraction with a disposal pipe. The pipes are coaxial to the vessel, at opposite ends and turn to rotate the vessel through drives at the pipes. The water temperature is controlled by an immersion heater.
A problem with the known fermentation vessel is that because the water, where the fermentation vessel floats, is exposed to the atmosphere, heat is continuously escaped from the water bed and thus the energy efficiency of the fermentation process is poor. Another problem is that the fermentation vessel needs to be supported below the vessel, which causes friction and thus requires more energy to rotate the fermentation vessel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a device and a method utilizing the device so as to overcome the above problems.
The object of the disclosure is achieved by a device and a method which are characterized by what is stated in the independent claims. The preferred embodiments of the disclosure are disclosed in the dependent claims.
The disclosure is based on the idea of arranging the water bed, where a cylindrical drum acting as biomass treatment reactor floats, inside a closed shell so that the cylindrical drum is fully enclosed by the shell and providing the shell with an insulation layer for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed through the stationary shell.
An advantage of the device and the method of the disclosure is that they provide the biomass treatment process with an improved energy efficiency because the heat of the water bed is retained inside the shell. Another advantage is that because the cylindrical drum floats in the water bed, the amount energy needed for rotating the cylindrical drum is smaller. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the following the disclosure will be described in greater detail by means of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
Figure is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and
Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
Device for treating biomass
The disclosure relates to a device for continuous treating of biomass. For example, the device is a biomass digester, a biomass reactor, a biomass drier, or a device for hygienizing biomass.
The device comprises a stationary shell 1 arranged to be filled at least partially with water for providing a water bed 7. The stationary shell 1 is closed for retaining the heat of the water bed inside the stationary shell 1 . The stationary shell 1 is provided with an insulation layer 1 1 for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed 7 through the stationary shell 1 . According to an embodiment, the stationary shell 1 has a cylindrical shape.
The device comprises a cylindrical drum 2 arranged inside the stationary shell 1 rotatably about is central axis in relation to the stationary shell 1 . The cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to receive biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2. The cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to be submerged at least partially in the water bed 7 when the stationary shell 1 is at least partially filled with water for providing buoyancy to the cylindrical drum 2. Preferably the cylindrical drum 2 is submerged in the water bed 7 in such way that the buoyancy provided by the water bed 7 to the cylindrical drum 2 is in balance with the weight of the cylindrical drum 2. The buoyancy of the cylindrical drum 2 can be adjusted by adjusting the water level in the water bed 7. The cylindrical drum 2 is closed for preventing the water of the water bed 7 from contacting biomass received inside the cylindrical drum 2. The cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to be fully enclosed by the stationary shell 1 . According to an embodiment, the cylindrical drum 2 is made of metal for improving heat transmission between the water bed 7 and the cylindrical drum 2.
According to an embodiment, the cylindrical drum 2 is provided with a screw conveyor means 23 for conveying biomass from the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 to the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates. The screw conveyor means 23 is arranged at the inner surface 24 of the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the screw conveyor means 23 comprises a plurality of screw sections. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 2.
The device comprises an inlet means 4 arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum 2 for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum 2 at a first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 and for supporting the cylindrical drum 2 at the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the inlet means 4 is supported by the stationary shell 1 and the inlet means 4 comprises a first tubular member 41 , an inlet screw conveyor 42 arranged inside the first tubular member 41 and connected to a biomass supply for conveying biomass from the biomass supply to the cylindrical drum 2, and an inlet bearing 43 arranged around the first tubular member 41 for supporting the cylindrical drum 2. According to an embodiment, the inlet means 4 is provided with a fluid feeding means 44 for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the fluid fed into the cylindrical drum 2 is steam, sourcing inoculum in liquid form, or an agent for adjusting pH of the biomass. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 3.
The device comprises an outlet means 5 arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum 2 for feeding biomass out of the cylindrical drum 2 at a second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 and for supporting the cylindrical drum 2 at the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the outlet means 5 is supported by the stationary shell 1 and the outlet means 5 comprises a second tubular member 51 , an outlet screw conveyor 52 arranged inside the second tubular member 51 , and an outlet bearing 53 arranged around the second tubular member 51 for supporting the cylindrical drum 2. According to an embodiment, the outlet means 5 is provided with a gas recovering means 54 for recovering gas from inside the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the gas recovered from inside the cylindrical drum 2 is biogas or steam or a mixture of steam and ammonia. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 3.
The device comprises a rotating means 6 for rotating the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the rotating means 6 comprises an electric motor connected to the cylindrical drum 2. The device comprises a temperature adjusting means 8 for adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7. For example, the temperature adjusting means 8 comprises a heater and/or a cooler. The purpose of adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7 is to provide the cylindrical drum 2 with optimal thermal conditions for treating biomass. In some situations, such as in cold climatic conditions, the water bed 7 needs to be heated, and in some situations the biological process inside the cylindrical drum 2 is so exothermic that the water bed needs to be cooled in order to sustain optimal thermal conditions.
According to an embodiment, the device comprises a hollow tubular member 31 arranged inside the cylindrical drum 2 and connected to the cylindrical drum 2 for rotating the hollow tubular member 31 in tandem with the cylindrical drum 2. The hollow tubular member 31 is connected to the outer surface 25 of the cylindrical drum 2 by at least one hollow connecting member 33 for providing a fluid connection between the water bed 7 and the inner volume of the hollow tubular member 31 for allowing the water of the water bed 7 to enter and exit the hollow tubular member 31 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates while preventing contact of water of the water bed 7 in with the biomass. When the cylindrical drum 2 rotates, the water of the water bed 7 enters and exits the hollow tubular member 31 via the hollow connecting member 33 and thus transmits heat to the hollow tubular member 31 and onwards to the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2. The purpose of the hollow tubular member 31 is to provide more even heat transmission from the water bed 7 to the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 4.
According to an embodiment, the device comprises a hollow tubular member 31 arranged inside the cylindrical drum 2 and connected to the cylindrical drum 2 for rotating the hollow tubular member 31 in tandem with the cylindrical drum 2. A conveyor screw 32 is arranged at the outer surface of the hollow tubular member 31 for conveying biomass from the second end 22 of the cylindrical drum 2 towards the first end 21 of the cylindrical drum 2 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates. In other words, when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates, the screw conveyor means 23 convey biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2 from the first end 21 to the second end 22, and simultaneously, the conveyor screw 32 conveys a part of the biomass at the second end 22 towards the first end 21 , for circulating biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2. The purpose of circulating biomass is to provide the first end 21 with bacteria existing at the second end 22 and thus improving the treatment of biomass in the cylindrical drum 2. The hollow tubular member 31 may be connected to the outer surface 25 of the cylindrical drum 2 by at least one hollow connecting member 33 for providing a fluid connection between the water bed 7 and the inner volume of the hollow tubular member 31 for allowing the water of the water bed 7 to enter and exit the hollow tubular member 31 when the cylindrical drum 2 rotates while preventing contact of water of the water bed 7 in with the biomass. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 5.
Method for treating biomass
The disclosure relates also to a method for treating biomass. For example, the treatment is digesting biomass for producing biogas, separating nitrogen from biomass, drying biomass or hygienizing biomass.
The method comprises a providing step for providing a device as described above.
The method comprises a filling step for filling the stationary shell 1 at least partially with water for providing a water bed 7. Preferably the stationary shell 1 is filled with water in such way that the buoyancy provided by the water bed 7 to the cylindrical drum 2 is in balance with the weight of the cylindrical drum 2 and the biomass inside the cylindrical drum 2.
The method comprises a temperature adjusting step for adjusting the temperature of the water bed 7 to 20 to 100 °C, such as 20 to 60 °C or 60 to 100 °C. In biogas production, the temperature is preferably 20 to 60 °C. In nitrogen separation and biomass drying, the temperature is preferably 60 to 100 °C. The temperature adjusting step is performed using the temperature adjusting means 8.
The method comprises a first feeding step for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum 2. The first feeding step is performed using the inlet means 4, for example the inlet screw conveyor 42. Preferably, in the feeding step, biomass is fed into the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
According to an embodiment, the method comprises a second feeding step for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum 2. The second feeding step is performed using the fluid feeding means 44. For example, the fluid fed in the second feeding step is steam, hot air, sourcing inoculum in liquid form or an agent for adjusting pH of the biomass. For example, when the treatment is producing biogas, the fluid is sourcing inoculum or an agent for adjusting pH, and when the treatment is nitrogen separation, biomass drying or hygienizing, the fluid is steam or hot air.
The method comprises a treating step for treating the biomass in the cylindrical drum 2. For example, the biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 by exposing biomass to suitable temperature and dwell time for promoting growth of bacteria, which in turn convert biomass into biogas. According to another example, biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 by exposing biomass to heat for example provided by steam for separating nitrogen from biomass as ammonia. Preferably, in the treating step, biomass is treated in the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
The method comprises a first recovering step for recovering treated biomass from the cylindrical drum 2. The first recovering step is performed using outlet means 5, for example the outlet screw conveyor 52. Preferably, in the first recovering step, biomass is recovered from the cylindrical drum 2 continuously.
According to an embodiment, the method comprises a second recovering step for recovering gas from the cylindrical drum 2. The second recovering step is performed using the gas recovering means 54. For example, in the treating step, biomass is converted into treated biomass and biogas, and in the second recovering step, biogas is recovered from the cylindrical drum 2. According to an alternative embodiment, in the treating step, nitrogen is separated from the biomass as ammonia by heat provided by steam, and in the second recovering step, ammonia and steam are recovered from the cylindrical drum 2.

Claims

1. A device for continuous treating of biomass, comprising
- a stationary shell (1 ) arranged to be filled at least partially with water for providing a water bed (7);
- a cylindrical drum (2) arranged inside the stationary shell (1 ) rotatably about is central axis in relation to the stationary shell (1 ), wherein the cylindrical drum 2 is arranged to receive biomass inside the cylindrical drum (2), and the cylindrical drum (2) is arranged to be submerged at least partially in the water bed (7) when the stationary shell (1 ) is at least partially filled with water for providing buoyancy to the cylindrical drum (2);
- an inlet means (4) arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum (2) for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum (2) at a first end (21 ) of the cylindrical drum (2) and for supporting the cylindrical drum (2) at the first end (21 ) of the cylindrical drum (2);
- an outlet means (5) arranged coaxially with the cylindrical drum (2) for feeding biomass out of the cylindrical drum (2) at a second end (22) of the cylindrical drum (2) and for supporting the cylindrical drum (2) at the second end (22) of the cylindrical drum (2);
- a rotating means (6) for rotating the cylindrical drum (2); and
- a temperature adjusting means (8) for adjusting the temperature of the water bed
(7) ,
wherein the cylindrical drum (2) is closed for preventing the water of the water bed (7) from contacting biomass received inside the cylindrical drum (2),
characterized in that
the stationary shell (1 ) is closed and the cylindrical drum (2) is arranged to be fully enclosed by the stationary shell (1 ), and
the stationary shell (1 ) is provided with an insulation layer (1 1 ) for reducing transmission of the heat of the water bed (7) through the stationary shell (1 ).
2. A device according to claim 1 , characterized in that the stationary shell (1 ) has a cylindrical shape.
3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cylindrical drum (2) is made of metal.
4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cylindrical drum (2) is provided with a screw conveyor means (23) arranged at the inner surface (24) of the cylindrical drum (2) for conveying biomass from the first end (21 ) of the cylindrical drum (2) to the second end (22) of the cylindrical drum (2) when the cylindrical drum (2) rotates.
5. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet means (4) is provided with a fluid feeding means (44) for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum (2).
6. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet means (5) is provided with a gas recovering means (54) for recovering gas from inside the cylindrical drum (2).
7. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a hollow tubular member (31 ) arranged inside the cylindrical drum (2) and connected to the cylindrical drum (2) for rotating the hollow tubular member (31 ) in tandem with the cylindrical drum (2), the hollow tubular member (31 ) being connected to the outer surface (25) of the cylindrical drum (2) by at least one hollow connecting member (33) for providing a fluid connection between the water bed (7) and the inner volume of the hollow tubular member (31 ) for allowing the water of the water bed (7) to enter and exit the hollow tubular member (31 ) when the cylindrical drum (2) rotates while preventing contact of water of the water bed (7) in with the biomass.
8. A device according to claim 7, characterized in that a conveyor screw (32) is arranged at the outer surface of the hollow tubular member (31 ) for conveying biomass from the second end (22) of the cylindrical drum (2) towards the first end (21 ) of the cylindrical drum (2) when the cylindrical drum (2) rotates.
9. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device is a biomass digester.
10. A method for treating biomass, comprising the steps of
- a providing step for providing a device according to any one of the preceding claims,
- a filling step for filling the stationary shell (1 ) at least partially with water for providing a water bed (7),
- a temperature adjusting step for adjusting the temperature of the water bed (7) to 20 to 100 °C,
- a first feeding step for feeding biomass into the cylindrical drum (2)
- a treating step for treating the biomass in the cylindrical drum (2), and
- a first recovering step for recovering treated biomass from the cylindrical drum
(2) .
1 1 . A method according to claim 10, characterized in that the method comprises a second feeding step for feeding fluid into the cylindrical drum 2.
12. A method according to claim 10 or 1 1 , characterized in that the method comprises a second recovering step for recovering gas from the cylindrical drum (2).
PCT/FI2019/050463 2018-06-18 2019-06-17 Device and method for treating biomass WO2019243664A1 (en)

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WO2022180232A1 (en) * 2021-02-25 2022-09-01 Electrochaea GmbH Heat exchange system

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DE3246590A1 (en) * 1982-12-16 1984-06-20 Josef 8000 München Neubauer DEVICE FOR TAKING ENERGY IN THE FORM OF BIOGAS OR RED HEAT
WO1986005171A1 (en) * 1985-03-08 1986-09-12 Georg Szikriszt Apparatus for gas-producing treatment of organic material
DE10306988A1 (en) 2003-02-19 2004-09-16 Mhs International Gmbh & Co. Kg Continuous dry fermentation of a biomass, to yield a biogas, has a fermentation vessel rotating on heated water with a continuous feed and residue extraction and a gas take-off
US8129158B2 (en) * 2010-04-14 2012-03-06 Straeter James E Apparatus and method of using an agricultural waste digester and biogas generation system
WO2012116394A1 (en) * 2011-02-28 2012-09-07 Cesco Australia Limited An anaerobic digester for digesting organic matter and producing biogas
DE102012102544A1 (en) * 2012-03-23 2013-09-26 Kompostierungsanlage Brunnenhof GmbH Fermenting drum useful for continuous fermentation of biomass, comprises hollow cylindrical drum container comprising tubular drum wall and terminated on two opposite end faces, which respectively comprise centrally arranged bearing axle

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3246590A1 (en) * 1982-12-16 1984-06-20 Josef 8000 München Neubauer DEVICE FOR TAKING ENERGY IN THE FORM OF BIOGAS OR RED HEAT
WO1986005171A1 (en) * 1985-03-08 1986-09-12 Georg Szikriszt Apparatus for gas-producing treatment of organic material
DE10306988A1 (en) 2003-02-19 2004-09-16 Mhs International Gmbh & Co. Kg Continuous dry fermentation of a biomass, to yield a biogas, has a fermentation vessel rotating on heated water with a continuous feed and residue extraction and a gas take-off
US8129158B2 (en) * 2010-04-14 2012-03-06 Straeter James E Apparatus and method of using an agricultural waste digester and biogas generation system
WO2012116394A1 (en) * 2011-02-28 2012-09-07 Cesco Australia Limited An anaerobic digester for digesting organic matter and producing biogas
DE102012102544A1 (en) * 2012-03-23 2013-09-26 Kompostierungsanlage Brunnenhof GmbH Fermenting drum useful for continuous fermentation of biomass, comprises hollow cylindrical drum container comprising tubular drum wall and terminated on two opposite end faces, which respectively comprise centrally arranged bearing axle

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022180232A1 (en) * 2021-02-25 2022-09-01 Electrochaea GmbH Heat exchange system

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