Our Technology

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process where organic matter, such as manure, farm residues, or food production waste, is broken down in a sealed, oxygen-free tank called an anaerobic digester. The process produces biogas, a source of renewable energy, and a nutrient-rich biofertiliser used for crop growth and soil enrichment.

A Plug Flow Reactor (PFR) is a type of anaerobic digester designed to produce maximum efficiency in biogas production. Unlike traditional round tanks (CSTR), it processes material via a linear flow, ensuring a more complete breakdown of organic matter.

The key difference between PFR and CSTR is efficiency. A PFR (Plug Flow Reactor) moves waste in a controlled, linear flow, ensuring all material is fully digested. A CSTR (Continuously Stirred Tank Reactor) relies on discharging during feeding, which can leave material undigested, reducing gas output. PFR systems breaks down organic matter more effectively and achieves higher biomethane yields.

A PFR operates in a long, sealed tank where organic matter is added at one end and moves steadily through the system. Naturally occurring bacteria break down the matter, producing biogas. The remaining material exits as digestate, which can be used as fertiliser. These plants are typically found on farms and agricultural sites, where they process manure(s), farm residues and other organic matter into renewable energy.

All organic matter in the system spends the same amount of time in the process ensuring the maximum conversion of all biomass into biomethane. This is referred to as guaranteed retention time, which is unique to the PFR process.

PFR size depends on energy output needs. Systems range from small to large-scale agricultural plants, with capacities from 80kWe to 10MWth. Each plant is designed to match the available feedstock supply and energy demand and designed to create a low visual impact overall.