Circular Economy Biorefinery for Producing Biofertilizers, Biogas, and Bioenergy from Biomass: Conceptual Design, Process Characterization, and Thermo-Economic Assessment

Gómez Montoya J.P.; Castillo Alvarez Y.; Yepes Tumay H.A.; Tisza J.F.; Meseth E. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2025) · DOI: 10.18687/leird2025.1.1.385

Resumen

This paper proposes the conceptual design and start-up of circular economy biorefineries (BUB) based on anaerobic biodigesters to process municipal organic matter (MOM) and livestock manure. The system produces biofertilizers to support organic agriculture and biogas as a renewable fuel for electricity generation in adapted internal combustion engines, providing a sustainable pathway for waste valorization. The proposed circular economy framework promotes organic farming, rural reforestation, renewable fuel production, and local energy self-sufficiency, contributing to the energy transition and food sovereignty in vulnerable communities. A thermo-economic analysis shows strong financial viability, with high return on investment (ROI) and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The results demonstrate the potential of this frugal innovation model to foster local economies, open new market opportunities, and advance sustainable development through scalable and replicable biorefineries adapted to regional conditions. © LEIRD 2025.All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería; Universidad Tecnológica del Perú