This book derives an explicit analytical pattern (or framework) that permits the examination and optimization of biogas production systems. It provides a concise overview of the current status of biogas and biogas coupled agricultural systems in China, and introduces evaluation methods for energy efficiency, environmental emissions, economic performance and sustainability assessment approaches. Based on empirical studies, it also explores future options for the system development by focusing on emissions mitigation, biogas energy efficiency and system sustainability. Systematic methods of life cycle assessment and thermodynamic analysis may provide new angles for biogas system evaluation. The system discussed is not only a biogas producer, but also a biogas-linked ecological agricultural system, which has the potential to broaden the applicable scopes of renewable energy and eco-agricultural management. The comprehensive, in-depth knowledge and experience presented provide new analytical approaches for researchers in relevant fields and shed light on the construction and operation of emerging anaerobic digestion and biogas industries. This book is a valuable resource for researchers focusing on biogas system modeling, project managers and policymakers.

Autorentext
Bin Chen is professor of ecological modelling in the School of Environment at Beijing Normal University. He is also a standing council member of China Energy Research Society. He obtained B.E. degree in electrical engineering from Zhejiang University, and Ph.D. degree in environmental science from Peking University. Dr. Chen has published over 180 peer-reviewed papers in prestigious international journals such as Environmental Science & Technology, Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews, Renewable Energy, Energy, Applied Energy, Energy Policy, Bioresource Technology, Ecological Economics, Ecological Indicators, Environmental Pollution and Ecological Modeling. Eight of his papers have been indexed in Elsevier/ScienceDirect Top 25 Hottest Articles. He is also serving as associate editor of Frontiers of Earth Science, and an editorial board member of Applied Energy, Ecological Modelling, Journal of Environmental Management, Journal of Hydrodynamics and Ecological Informatics, etc.He was also among the organizers and keynote speakers for various international conferences.

Inhalt
Biogas: A introduction.- History of biogas in China.- Fundamental of science and engineering of biogas production.- Comprehensive utilization types of Biogas in China.- Energy balance of biogas production systems.- Biogas and environmental emissionsLife cycle analysis.- Economic analysis of biogas production systems.- Sustainability of complex biogas systems.- Future development of biogas in China.