The dissertation is titled “Development of a Measurement Technique for Continuous Monitoring of Mixing in Biogas Fermenters” and describes a relatively simple system consisting of force sensors and optical measurement technology using a camera and computer vision to monitor the flow field and mixing within the fermenter.

As part of the work, a positioning strategy for the sensors on the fermenter’s circumference is developed to correlate local measurement data as precisely as possible with characteristic parameters of the flow field. The necessary investigations of the flow field were conducted using three different agitators—widely used in agricultural biogas plants—on a model fermenter via Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV).

PIV - video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y40Z93c4faw

The measured data obtained were used to validate CFD simulations and form the basis for further parameter studies.

“Many iterations and a few detours were necessary. The TUM environment, the collaboration with project partners, and the RES team made this research possible,” said Bernhard Huber.

The dissertation, which included an oral defense, was completed with the distinction “Summa cum laude.”

The RES team extends its warmest congratulations to Bernhard Huber on this great success and wishes him all the best for the future.