How did you come up with the idea for your
competition submission, “Utilizing Biogas Generation: A Sustainable Means for
Power Generation in Rural Communities”?
Like many
developing nations around the world, Nigeria is plagued with increasing energy
demand despite the negative impacts of fossil fuels on climate change. Emerging
economies (mostly non-oil-producing states) are largely dependent on the oil
price fluctuation as this translates to the price of energy supplied. However,
countless tons of waste are generated daily from different processes, both
polymeric and agricultural waste.
At first,
we decided to put away these polymeric wastes using pyrolysis technology, but
after critical analysis, we found out that it is highly energy-intensive and
does not directly benefit the target communities (rural areas). Subsequently,
we had to consider agricultural waste since its product directly affects energy
efficiency and contributes to seamless operations in this agronomic community
while the environment is devoid of waste. Therefore, this project looked more
exciting because it addressed affordable and clean energy and zero
hunger, which is part of the 17 SDGs proposed by the United Nations.
We had to consider extensively the feasibility
of generating enough biogas through established processes and how it can be
effectively utilized using relevant technologies
Do you
think that the technology you recommended could be implemented on a larger
scale?
Yes, the
technology is strongly recommended on a larger scale. However, it would depend
on multiple factors, including the availability of suitable feed-stock,
re-design calculations to ensure the bio-digesters can sufficiently feed the
generators continuously, depending on the scale of energy demand. In addition,
to increase energy efficiency, emerging energy storage facilities can be
introduced.
What inspired you to enter this competition?
ACE4G has
always been a platform to express the chemical engineering instincts in us. We
have understudied the competition and the quality of submissions over the
years. However, with everyone working from home due to COVID-19, we formed a
team and met virtually every week to discuss our progression until the final
submission.
What were some of the highlights of working on this
competition with your team members? Did you learn anything new in this process?
The most
excellent highlight of working on this competition with my team members would
be the soft skills and chemistry we acquired along the way. Each team member
contributed as they were entrusted with individual tasks and were eager to
accept constructive criticism and suggestions. As a result, we were able to
proffer solutions for each problem we faced. And when had a hectic schedule as
school resumed, the team came through by meeting late hours.
We had to
consider extensively the feasibility of generating enough biogas through
established processes and how it can be effectively utilized using relevant
technologies.
https://www.aiche.org/chenected/2021/08/Obafemi-awolowo-university-and-2021-aiche-chemical-engineering-good-challenge-ace4g
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