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Ethanol plant wastewater treatment, and biogas to produce 10 MW electricity?

UASB pond for wastewater treatment and biogas production — UASB pond process developed and constructed by Papop

Wastewater generated from the distillation process in ethanol and alcohol production plants (vinasse) is characterised by high concentrations of organic matter, total dissolved solids (TDS), and potassium ions (K⁺), with chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels reaching up to 200,000 mg/L. As such, the treatment of this wastewater and the subsequent production of biogas presents significant challenges, necessitating advanced experience and technical expertise.

Papop is a leading Thai engineering firm with over 15 years of experience in developing wastewater treatment and biogas production systems designed specifically for ethanol production facilities. This article highlights a successful case study, detailing Papop’s role in the design, construction, and commissioning of a comprehensive wastewater treatment and biogas generation system for an ethanol facility located in western Thailand.

This system is engineered to process 1,500 cubic meters of wastewater per day, with a chemical oxygen demand (COD) ranging from 150,000 to 180,000 mg/L. The treatment process incorporates both an acid pond and an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) pond. The UASB pond was designed by the Papop engineering team to achieve high operational efficiency and incorporate several distinctive features.

During the startup period, COD removal efficiency reaches 75-80%, and the maximum biogas volume produced is 110,000 cubic meters per day, which is equivalent to generating 10 megawatts per hour of electricity. This level of production is comparatively higher than that from other types of wastewater.

Furthermore, the UASB system is capable of treating wastewater to achieve COD levels below 50,000 mg/L due to its high operational efficiency. This capability represents proprietary expertise exclusive to Papop and enables optimal performance of subsequent stages in the wastewater treatment process.

Anaerobic wastewater treatment using UASB pond for biogas production

UASB Pond for biogas production from an ethanol plant

Papop provides customized wastewater treatment solutions, including anaerobic systems like UASB and CSTR for diverse industries. For cost-effective, efficient, and eco-friendly treatment technologies, contact us for a free consultation and help create a sustainable future.