Nature-based Methane Reduction for Low-Volume Emissions
Approved for funding in ERA’s Biological GHG Management Program in 2013, the University of Calgary (UofC) conducted a research program led by Dr. Hettiaratchi to explore methane biofiltration (MBF) technology. By project completion in 2016, lab-based investigation and field-scale pilot of the MBF technology proved its ability to treat methane-rich waste gas streams from oil and gas wells and landfills.
Methanotrophic bacteria have the ability to convert methane to carbon dioxide (CO2) without producing toxic by-products, making them an important methane sink that can contribute to the reduction of overall greenhouse gases (GHGs) released into the atmosphere. Large methane emissions are economically feasible to capture however, methane releases at individual locations are relatively hard to manage and typically vented or flared, as no alternative cost-effective technology to control such emissions exists. The University of Calgary investigated and developed MBF technology, utilizing the capability of methanotrophic bacteria. The MBF solution to methane venting or flaring is a biological process to control small and low-quality emissions with minimal environmental impacts. The methane biofilter does not require on-site operation; therefore is well-suited to control methane emissions from oil well sites, landfill sites, and other remote facilities. Partnering with NSERC and MITAC, this project will involve the field application of the MBF technology, laboratory, and theoretical investigation.
Methane Biofiltration, a Proven Successful GHG Mitigation Technology
The project oversaw the design, construction, installation, and monitoring of field-scale pilot MBFs to treat methane-rich waste gas streams from several oil and gas well sites and landfills. Results show the expected CO2 reduction over 10 years from one methane biofilter is over 2,000 tonnes of CO2e. During the project, a market analysis was completed to identify opportunities for the technology to assess the commercial feasibility. Successful lab testing assessed fiber-based and compost-based materials for the methane biofilter composition, as well as aerated biofilter experiments, comparing the performance of flow and air delivery. Data from field work on biofilter design, construction, and installation were analyzed. MBF design was adapted for operations through collaboration with Devon Energy, and field analysis for existing MBFs were conducted.
More details about the market feasibility report, gap analysis, monitoring protocol development, and field work, along with several theses written in conjunction with this project, can be found in the final outcomes report. Key learnings include operational efficiency of compost biofilters under acidic conditions, lava rock performance, effects on oxidation efficiency, and best conditions for bacterial development.
What’s next?
Next steps for the UofC were to apply the developed MBF technology under further field situations and continue operation and monitoring. Long term, the technology would be applied throughout Alberta, where low volume and quality methane emissions are significant, such as landfill sites, oil and gas facilities, and feedlot operations.
Post project, further research has continued within the UofC, as well as a follow-on project with Alberta Innovates from 2019 – 2023, deploying high-rate methane biofilter technology in oil and gas and livestock operations in Alberta. Partnering with AB Agriculture, Steelhead Petroleum, NAL Resources, and Bering Resources, a successful implementation will result in a commercial-ready product to control methane-rich waste gas emissions.