Research on Methane-Rich Biogas Production Technology by Anaerobic Digestion Under Carbon Neutrality: A Review

Shiqing Qian, Luming Chen, Sunqiang Xu, Cai Zeng, Xueqi Lian, Zitong Xia and Jintuo Zou ()
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Shiqing Qian: Guangdong Guoneng Longyuan New Energy Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 511458, China
Luming Chen: Guangdong Guoneng Longyuan New Energy Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 511458, China
Sunqiang Xu: Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Cai Zeng: Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Xueqi Lian: Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Zitong Xia: Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Jintuo Zou: Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 4, 1-30

Abstract: Amid the pressing challenge of global climate change, biogas (marsh gas) has garnered recognition as a clean and renewable energy source with significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable energy production. Composed primarily of methane (CH 4 ) and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), enhancing the CH 4 content in biogas is essential for improving its quality and expanding its high-value applications. This review examines the mechanisms underlying CH 4 and CO 2 production in anaerobic digestion (AD) processes; investigates the effects of raw material types, process routes, and fermentation conditions on biogas production and CH 4 content; and proposes feasible technical pathways for producing CH 4 -rich biogas. Research indicates that CH 4 -rich biogas can be produced through various strategies. Raw material pretreatment technologies and co-digestion strategies can enhance substrate performance, stabilize the AD process, and boost CH 4 production. Process optimizations, such as multiphase AD and CH 4 co-production techniques, significantly improve carbon utilization efficiency. Introducing exogenous reinforcement materials, including biochar and zero-valent iron nanoparticles, fosters microbial interactions and facilitates direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET). Furthermore, microbial regulation through genetic engineering and microbial community design presents promising prospects. By reviewing the mechanisms of gas production, influencing factors, and feasible pathways, this work aims to provide valuable insights for the technical research of AD to produce CH 4 -rich biogas.

Keywords: anaerobic digestion enhancement; regulation of methane content; carbon emission reduction; sustainable energy production (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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