Estimation of Biogas Generation by the Use of First-order Kinetic Models for a Landfill Site in Karaj, Iran

Abstract

The first-degree models are widely used to estimate the gas production rate in landfills. In this article, by the use oftwo first-degree models of LandGEM and Afvalzorg, the biogas production rate in the Halgheh-Darrehlandfill site, Karaj, Iran, was estimated. According to an annual rainfall of 247 mm in this landfill and waste composition, the first-order rate constant (k) value was calculated for the Land GEM model as 0.025 yr^-1. The theoretical and practical potential values were obtained as 37.30 m3/Mg and 61.65 m3/Mg, respectively. The corresponding amounts of biogas produced by the LandGem model are respectively as 901.82 m^3hr^-1 and 1426.94 m^3hr^-1. By Afvalzorg model, the amount of biogas produced in this landfill has been estimated maximally and minimally as 5200 and 4000m^3.hr^-1, respectively.