Cryogenic Technologies for Biogas Upgrading: A Critical Review of Processes, Performance, and Prospects

Abstract

Cryogenic upgrading represents a promising route for the production of high-purity biomethane, aligning with current decarbonization goals and the increasing demand for renewable gases. This review provides a critical assessment of cryogenic technologies applied to biogas purification, focusing on process fundamentals, technological configurations, energy and separation performance, and their industrial integration potential. The analysis covers standalone cryogenic systems as well as hybrid configurations combining cryogenic separation with membrane or chemical pretreatment to enhance efficiency and reduce operating costs. A comparative evaluation of key performance indicators—including methane recovery, specific energy demand, product purity, and technology readiness level—is presented, along with a discussion of representative industrial applications. In addition, recent techno-economic studies are examined to contextualize cryogenic upgrading within the broader landscape of CO2 separation technologies. Environmental trade-offs, investment thresholds, and sensitivity to gas prices and CO2 taxation are also discussed. The review identifies existing technical and economic barriers, outlines research and innovation priorities, and highlights the relevance of process integration with natural gas networks. Overall, cryogenic upgrading is confirmed as a technically viable and environmentally competitive solution for biomethane production, particularly in contexts requiring liquefied biomethane or CO2 recovery. Strategic deployment and regulatory support will be key to accelerating its industrial adoption. The objectives of this review have been met by consolidating the current state of knowledge and identifying specific gaps that warrant further investigation. Future work is expected to address these gaps through targeted experimental studies and technology demonstrations.