Safe design and operation of renewable natural gas facilities

The U.S. produces almost 70 MMtpy of waste1; over time, this waste generates biogas with the help of bacteria. Biogas is a mixture of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2) and other trace gases and is normally released into the atmosphere. However, waste collection plants are now exploring ways to collect the biogas and refine it into pure CH4, also known as renewable natural gas (RNG). RNG can be used for injections into existing natural gas pipelines or used as fuel for RNG-dependent transportation vehicles. In recent years, the number of RNG plants has grown significantly within the U.S. Despite the many benefits and solutions that RNG provides, hazards remain; because RNG is a relatively