Dedicated control and measurement system for bioreactors to study the composting process

Abstract

During the composting process, waste biomass with high moisture content undergoes various transformation in the presence of oxygen. The composting process is analyzed in dedicated bioreactors which are air-tight facilities with external air supply. Subject to the type of composted plant material, biomass should be periodically turned to promote even aeration. The following information is required to build a model of the composting process: oxygen (air) uptake, moisture content of exhaust gas, production of carbon dioxide, ammonia and other gases in the composting process, and temperature distribution inside the bioreactor. A temperature monitoring system for a bioreactor is difficult to build due to challenging operating conditions including the airtight structure of a bioreactor, high moisture content, the operation of temperature sensors in a highly aggressive environment, problems with uninterrupted power supply for the monitoring system in a bioreactor. This article presents a patented temperature monitoring system for a bioreactor. The system's design and structure are discussed, and recommendations for functional improvements are made.