Biomass energy conversion and utilization in the developing countries

Section I presents the basic principles of anaerobic digestion and shows how to design and construct biogas plants. Topics covered include: the digestion process; carbon-nitrogen ratio; temperature dependency; Indian- and Chinese-type and horizontal digesters; alternative designs; manure production; gas production and use; cooking; lighting; refrigeration; shaft power; power generation; waste heat recovery; and sludge use. Health, economic/financial, policy, and socioeconomic aspects are also noted, and the construction details, design, and cost of a 4 cubic meter Chinese-type digester are included. Subsequent sections treat biomass gasification (covering gasifier types, systems, fuels, sizing; uses in stationary engines, process heat, electrical power, and vehicle propulsion; and economic and deforestation issues) and the production of fuel alcohol (raw materials, production technology, stillage digestion, ethanol fuel, and costs). Included are references to each section, a 102-item bibliography (1961-84), and the names and addresses of gasifier equipment manufacturers.