Progress  in  Anaerobic  Digestion  for  Improved  Biogas Generation : An Overview  of  Technologies  and  Challenges

Authors

  • Ahmed Hameed Mohmmed Environmental Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Mustansiryiah University, Baghdad, IRAQ
  • Sroor Atallah Khalifa2 Mustansiryiah University, College of Engineering, Baghdad, IRAQ
  • Salam Salman Chiad Alharishawi Mustansiryiah University, College of Engineering, Baghdad, IRAQ

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71229/2q0ds428

Keywords:

Biogas Production, , Anaerobic Digestion , , Renewable Energy, , Methane, , Sustainable Development ,, Biogas Technology ,, Agricultural Waste, , Waste Management, , Process Inhibition, , Circular Bioeconomy

Abstract

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is emerging as one of the most promising technologies for sustainable waste management and renewable energy production. The demand for clean energy and the increasing production of agricultural, industrial and municipal wastes have raised an interest in biogas production as an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. This review concerns the recent advances in anaerobic digestion technologies for biogas production and process efficiency. The study reviews the principles of biogas production, the stages of anaerobic digestion and key operating parameters influencing digester performance, such as temperature, pH, organic loading rate, hydraulic retention time and substrate composition. The different types of anaerobic digesters and their applications are discussed as well.

In addition, the review highlights major challenges in anaerobic digestion such as process instability, ammonia, sulfide, volatile fatty acids and other inhibitory compounds. Special emphasis is given to the use of agricultural residues as renewable and sustainable substrates for biogas generation because of their abundant and renewable availability. In addition to limitations and operational constraints, the environmental, economic and energy related benefits of biogas systems are discussed. In conclusion, the development of anaerobic digestion technologies holds great promise for the enhancement of renewable energy production, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and the promotion of sustainable waste management practices. Future research should focus on process optimization, pretreatment technologies, co-digestion strategies, and integration of advanced monitoring systems to maximize biogas yield and process stability.

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Published

2026-07-04

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Review Papers

How to Cite

Progress  in  Anaerobic  Digestion  for  Improved  Biogas Generation : An Overview  of  Technologies  and  Challenges. (2026). Al-Noor Journal of Engineering Management and Computer Science, 2(2), 1-25. https://doi.org/10.71229/2q0ds428

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