International Journal of Energy Research, Vol.45, No.3, 3761-3779, 2021
Materials for the design and construction of household biogas digesters for biogas production: A review
This article reviews the various materials used for the construction and fabrication of biogas digesters. The reviewed materials include bricks, cement, plastics, reinforced fiber, and metals, which find its application in household biogas digester design. The review aims to provide and help energy engineers and researchers as well as stakeholders in the selection of an appropriate material for the construction and fabrication of biogas digesters. More also, the present study will present information on the challenges associated with each material and how to minimize it to enhance the development of biogas digesters technology. Detailed information on the gas yields resulting from the biogas digesters constructed and fabricated using bricks, cement, plastics, and metals as well as material used for biogas storage are reviewed. Though, findings show that most local and household biogas digesters were constructed with bricks and cement due to their rigidity, robustness, and lifespan. However, in areas where logistics and transportation may prove challenging, the likely substitute is soft bag digester owing to the light weight.