Driving Innovation

At the core of our mission lies the firm belief that organic waste management and renewable energy are important parts of the fight against climate change. As pioneers in the field of anaerobic digestion and biogas production, our dedicated research and development team strives to increase the productivity of biogas plants. Through the integration of state-of-the-art technologies into our processes, we explore novel ideas and emerging innovations, aiming to revolutionize the conversion of organic waste into energy and nutrient recovery capabilities.

Research & Development

As a leader in the field of anaerobic digestion, CH Four Biogas boasts an unwavering commitment to advancing our products and services through continuous R&D efforts. Our dedicated team explores innovative, cutting-edge technologies to drive improvements to anaerobic digester design and operations. Our strong collaboration with government research branches, such as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the National Research Council (NRC), as well as academic institutions, including Guelph University, the University of Ottawa, McMaster University, as well as industry partners amplifies our capabilities.

Collaboration

Collaboration is pivotal to our approach to research and development. We actively foster partnerships with research institutions, and other technology providers, believing that collective efforts yield remarkable outcomes. Collaborating with others allows us leverage expertise, resources, and diverse perspectives to advance biogas production and anaerobic digestion. Together, we address challenges and shape a sustainable future.

Innovation

Our research endeavors prioritize exploring new horizons in biogas production and anaerobic digestion. We optimize processes, enhance digester performance, and implement new technologies. From advancing feedstock characterization to developing nutrient recovery techniques, our research unlocks untapped potential in renewable energy. Our R&D team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of biogas science and upholding our position as leaders in anaerobic digestion.

Stewardship

Stewardship is at the forefront of our R&D efforts, driving our commitment to sustainable development. We explore innovative solutions that maximize energy efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and promote resource conservation. We strive to enhance the viability and scalability of biogas technology, ensuring it aligns with the principles of responsible environmental stewardship. Our goal is to use our research to make a positive impact in the fight against climate change.

Research Interests

multi-stage anaerobic digestion
feedstock pretreatment
hydrolysis of organic materials
nutrient recovery
process simulation
ammonia removal
process optimization
BMP testing

How Anaerobic Digestion Works

1. Hydrolysis

In this initial stage, complex organic matter such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are broken down into simpler compounds by hydrolytic enzymes. This process converts complex organic substances into soluble compounds that can be easily utilized by microorganisms.

2. Acidogenesis

During this stage, acidogenic bacteria metabolize the products of hydrolysis, converting them into volatile fatty acids (VFAs), alcohols, and other intermediate compounds. These acidogenic reactions result in the production of organic acids.

3. Acetogenesis

Acetogenic bacteria further process the products of acidogenesis, primarily the VFAs, and convert them into acetic acid, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen. Acetogenesis is a crucial step that generates the precursors needed for the subsequent methane production.

4. Methanogenesis

The final stage involves methanogenic archaea that utilize the intermediates produced in the previous stages to produce methane gas (CH4) through a series of biochemical reactions. This methane-rich biogas is the desired end product of anaerobic digestion and can be utilized as a renewable energy source.