Methanization

Methanization, also called anaerobic digestion, is a natural biological process whereby material is broken down by micro-organisms to allow energy to be extracted from organic matter. The reaction happens in an oxygen-free environment, which is what makes it different from composting. The breakdown of organic matter produces biogas, a renewable energy source, as well as a residue called digestate used as fertiliser.

Methanization plants today face two challenges. The first one, is to maximise the transformation of organic matter into biogas in order to improve the profitability of the facility. The second is to improve the restitution of the digestate to the soil to preserve, store, and make available the elements that comprise it.