Energy

Biochemical processes

Biochemical processes work thanks to the action of fungi and bacteria that grow in the biomass in specific conditions of temperature and humidity. These micro-organisms digest organic matter freeing molecules that are waste (for them) but precious for us. Not all biomasses are suitable for these processes: fungi and bacteria do not eat absolutely everything but necessitate organic matter rich in proteins and water. Seaweeds, rejects from the cultivation of potatoes and beets, food waste and animal faeces are very good. The main products that can be obtained with these methods are biogas, bioethanol, fertilizers for agriculture and heat. Biogas is a mixture of gases, predominantly methane (50-70%) and carbon dioxide, which can be used for heating purposes or to make some particular plants allocated to the production of electrical energy work. Bioethanol is an alcohol that can be used as car fuel. It is obtained from the fermentation of the sugars of beets and sugar cane. It is a fuel of great interest because it is clean and cheap. It has been calculated that 11 million tonnes of bioethanol are produced annually, especially in U.S.A. and Brazil. Another interesting application of biomass is for heating animal farms and cultivations. The decomposition of waste products, like leaves or animal faeces, produce heat that can be used to warm up greenhouses and stables.