A, B, C

Nitrogenous gas, produced from the decomposition of nitrogenous compounds, such as protein, urea and uric acid.

Microorganisms that live and reproduce in an environment where free or dissolved oxygen is absent.

Degradation of organic substances by anaerobic bacteria, partly under release of biogas.

Farm manure intended for anaerobic digestion.

Product of anaerobic biodegradation of organic substrates. Contains approx. 45-70 % methane, 30-55 % carbon dioxide, small amounts of nitrogen, hydrogen sulphide and other trace gases.

Plant for the production, storage and utilisation of biogas, including all facilities and buildings serving the operation. The production is based on the fermentation of organic substances.

The buffer capacity is the amount of substance of a strong acid that is necessary to change the pH value to a defined value ( e.g. pH 5  ).

Unit for generating electrical and thermal energy based on an engine and a generator coupled to it.

Organic residues other than farmyard manures and energy crops intended for anaerobic digestion.

Ratio of carbon (C) to nitrogen (N). The C/N ratio in the material to be digested is important for an optimal digestion process (ideally: 13/30). The C/N ratio in the digested material allows a statement to be made about the availability of nitrogen during fertilisation (ideally approx. 13).

Colourless, incombustible, slightly sour-smelling gas which, along with water, is the end product of all combustion processes.

Biogas produced in the fermenter is saturated with water vapour and must be dehydrated before it can be utilized in the CHP unit. The targeted condensation takes place via an adequately laid earth line into a condensate separator or via drying of the biogas.

Simultaneous conversion of input energy into electrical (or mechanical) energy and into heat intended for energy use (useful heat).