PROJECT R&D+I

TITLE
HBIOS - BIOTECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN THE REMOVAL OF H2S PRESENT IN
BIOGAS

HIGHLIGHTS
Removal of H2S present in biogas through the use of microorganisms in desulphurization
reactors

ABSTRACT
In Portugal, the use of renewable energy sources to meet energy needs, including biogas, is
increasing. In the last two years the national installed capacity of biogas has doubled, largely due
to the policy of waste management that promotes the valorization of the organic fraction of the
waste produced. The presence of H2S in the biogas is one of the main factors that prevent its
direct use, since it is extremely corrosive to the equipment that burns it, as motor-generator sets.

In addition, the combustion of biogas containing H2S results in the production of SOx, with
negative effects on human health and the environment, and with legal limits applicable to its
emission. Removal of H2S is thus imperative so that biogas can be used sustainably.

In this context, the HbioS project proposes to introduce biotechnological innovations for the
removal of the H2S present in the biogas, through the use of microorganisms in desulphurization
reactors. This project is expected to achieve a more economically attractive global supply by
significantly reducing operating costs and environmental impact of the treatment system,
essentially resulting from the elimination of the consumption of chemicals, adsorbents and the
implications for waste disposal associated with these treatment processes.

KEYWORDS
Biogas, H2S, Desulphurization, Renewable Energies, Biotechnology Innovation, Biotechnology, Environment

PROMOTERS / PARTNERS
Escola Superior de Biotecnologia - Universidade Católica Portuguesa; WeDoTech, Lda. (coordenador); EFACEC -
Engenharia e Sistemas, S.A.

FINANCING PROGRAM EXECUTION DATE GLOBAL BUDGET

QREN (ADI – 21592) 2012-2015 € 283.466,34

CONTACTS E-MAIL PHONE

Paula Castro plcastro@porto.ucp.pt +351 22 558 0097