Generating Electrical Energy Using Biogas with Peltier Effect

Abstract

The project “Generating Electrical Energy Using Biogas with Peltier Effect” focuses on producing renewable electricity from organic waste through the combined principles of biogas production and thermoelectric energy conversion. Biogas, generated via anaerobic digestion of organic matter such as food waste, contains a high percentage of methane, making it an effective and eco-friendly fuel source. The methane-rich biogas is combusted to produce heat, which is then converted into electrical energy using Peltier modules based on the Seebeck effect — where a temperature difference across two semiconductor junctions generates voltage. The study successfully utilized four Peltier diodes to produce approximately 6 volts, sufficient to power small electronic devices such as LED lights and charge mobile phones. This system provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, particularly beneficial for remote and rural areas with limited electricity access. By converting waste into usable energy, this research supports global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote energy recycling, and develop cost-effective renewable power solutions for low-energy applications.

Introduction

The rising global energy demand, depletion of fossil fuels, and environmental issues like air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions have created a critical need for sustainable energy alternatives. Renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass are being explored, with biogas emerging as a promising solution. Biogas is produced via anaerobic digestion of organic waste—like food scraps, agricultural residues, and animal manure—yielding methane-rich gas that can be used for cooking, heating, and electricity generation. It simultaneously reduces waste and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

The study integrates biogas production with thermoelectric generation using Peltier modules, which convert heat into electricity through the Seebeck effect. Biogas combustion provides the heat source, and the temperature difference across the Peltier modules generates direct current electricity. Experiments showed that four modules could produce ~6 volts, enough to power small devices such as LEDs and mobile chargers.

This combined system offers a cost-effective, compact, and eco-friendly solution for electricity generation, especially in rural or remote areas. It efficiently utilizes organic waste, mitigates climate change, and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.

Problem Identification:

• Excessive fossil fuel use causes pollution and environmental damage.

• Remote areas lack consistent electricity.

• Large amounts of organic waste contribute to methane emissions.

• Heat from biogas and industrial processes is often wasted.

• Renewable systems like solar/wind are costly and weather-dependent.

• There is a need for an affordable, eco-friendly waste-to-electricity system.

Methodology:

1. Biogas production from organic waste via anaerobic digestion.

2. Combustion of biogas to generate heat.

3. Thermoelectric conversion using Peltier modules.

4. Voltage/current generation monitored and stored in batteries.

5. Power used for small devices or converted to AC for standard loads.

Benefits:

• Solid-state, low-maintenance, long-life, compact, and flexible.

• Operates in extreme or confined environments.

Scope:

• Series/parallel TEG connections for higher power output.

• Can harness body heat or vehicle radiator heat to charge devices.

Advantages:

• Clean, noiseless, low-cost, non-conventional, easy maintenance, portable, efficient, pollution-free, space-saving, and versatile for various electronic devices.

Conclusion

The project on Generating Electrical Energy Using Biogas with Peltier Effect successfully demonstrates a sustainable and eco-friendly method of converting waste heat into useful electrical energy. By utilizing the thermal energy produced from biogas combustion, the system effectively employs thermoelectric (Peltier) modules to convert heat differentials into electrical output. This generated power can be stored in a battery and later converted through an inverter to drive AC loads, proving its applicability for both domestic and industrial purposes. The inclusion of a temperature sensor ensures accurate monitoring and regulation of temperature, allowing proportional control of the DC motor’s speed based on the heat generated. This approach not only reduces energy waste but also contributes to green technology by minimizing dependence on non-renewable sources. Furthermore, it highlights the versatility of transducers in energy conversion processes and emphasizes the importance of recovering and utilizing industrial waste heat. Overall, the system establishes a foundation for further research into hybrid renewable energy systems that combine thermoelectric principles with biogas utilization for sustainable power generation.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Nilesh Bodne, Dr. Kiran Kimmatkar, Mayur Munghate. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.