OVERVIEW

BBA's primary nutrient management system is a thermophilic anaerobic digestion system based on a Danish technology developed by Bioscan A/S. Thermophilic anaerobic bacteria live in a high temperature range, as compared to mesophilic (another common technology). This high temperature environment typically generates a more complete breakdown of organic matter and, therefore, production of more biogas. BBA's digesters (10, approximately 1-million-gallon, above-ground vessels) will be built in parallel systems to maximize the ease of handling all the animal nutrients and allowing for routine shut-downs and maintenance.

This parallel system also helps ensure continuous operation in the case of mechanical failure or operational difficulties.

BBA's digester system is based on a technology having a 15-year-plus track record. This system has effectively processed multiple types of feedstock and is operating in numerous locations throughout Denmark.

Gas produced by the digesters (biogas) will be primarily used as a fuel for the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system. The CHP produces electricity and its heat is captured for use within the BBA campus (specifically the greenhouse complex).

EFFLUENT

There will be no release of any substance to the air from the digesters. All biogas from the digesters will go through a de-sulfurization treatment, then be burned in the engine generators or the high temperature combustion system on site. The result will be complete thermal oxidation. There are no heavy metals entering the manure stream on this site, which means there will be no heavy metal emissions.

Ammonia will be stripped from the effluent coming from the digester system. This concentrate will be marketed as fertilizer products, including being mixed with other minerals (high temperature combustion ash or phosphorus and potassium (PK) concentrate) to provide a more complete soil supplement. Belmont Bio-Ag will be approaching other sustainable agricultural operations to market the ammonia products.

INPUTS

OUTPUTS