The Modela UK engineering team recently took part in IWA AD19, the leading global scientific conference which brought together nearly 800 experts to shape the future of anaerobic digestion. We returned with a wealth of insights and a clear conviction: the future of our sector is being built on digital precision and the advanced application of bioprocess-fluid dynamics integration.
A technical reflection: Cutting-edge innovation vs. operational efficiency
One of the key takeaways from the event is that, whilst academia explores fascinating frontiers such as bioplastics or the conversion of gases into proteins, the industry agrees that the immediate focus must be on maximising the efficiency of current processes. This is where advanced modelling delivers real value.
Insight from our Director, Andrés Donoso-Bravo: “There were many interesting and genuinely innovative research presentations and posters focused on creating greater value from biogas and digestate. I believe that some of these innovations will make a significant leap in maturity and technology readiness once anaerobic digestion itself is widely adopted as a robust, efficient, and resilient bioprocess. Mathematical modeling will play a crucial role in accelerating this transition by improving process understanding, optimization, scale-up, and operational reliability.”
Our contribution
We had the opportunity to contribute to the discussion. Our colleague, Fernando Zorrilla, successfully presented our work at the specialised session ‘Modelling, control and beyond 3’, sparking a valuable exchange of ideas and technical debate with leading global experts in the field.
Synergies and collaborative learning
This conference provided the ideal setting to build synergies and to express our gratitude for the time and exchange of views with colleagues and organisations that are driving the sector forward.
We return inspired and ready to continue transforming cutting-edge research into applied, efficient and scalable engineering solutions for the biogas industry.
Is your plant ready for the next level of efficiency? If you’re working on process optimisation using CFD or digital twins, we’d love to hear about your experience. Leave us a comment or send us a direct message.
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