Comprehensive One-Dimensional Mathematical Model for Heat, Gas, and Moisture Transport in Methane Biofilters
Publication: Practice Periodical of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste Management
Volume 11, Issue 4
Abstract
The long-term operation of a methane biofilter depends on maintaining a favorable environment for methanotrophic bacteria within the porous medium supporting their growth. The concentrations of methane and oxygen, moisture content, and temperature were identified as the most important factors influencing the performance of methane biofilters (MBFs). This paper presents a comprehensive one-dimensional mathematical model capable of predicting the methane oxidation capacity of MBFs based on gas and moisture transport, and heat transfer. The finite difference method was used to spatially discretize the nonlinear partial differential equations and the equations were solved explicitly. The model was calibrated and verified using laboratory experimental data.
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Acknowledgments
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada, the University of Calgary, and TransCanada Pipelines of Calgary provided financial support for this study.
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Published In
Practice Periodical of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste Management
Volume 11 • Issue 4 • October 2007
Pages: 225 - 233
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 27, 2006
Accepted: Apr 12, 2007
Published online: Oct 1, 2007
Published in print: Oct 2007
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