Asahi Kasei, a diversified global manufacturer, has successfully completed a demonstration of its advanced biogas purification technology in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The trial, which began in February 2025, delivered impressive results—achieving a biomethane yield exceeding 99.5% and purity above 97%. This innovation offers a highly efficient and cost-effective method for converting biogas into usable biomethane, positioning the company for a potential commercial rollout by 2027. Asahi Kasei is now actively exploring global licensing opportunities for this technology.
With the global transition to renewable energy gaining momentum, biomethane is emerging as a key sustainable energy source. It can be integrated into existing natural gas infrastructure, enabling waste reduction while supplying clean energy. Currently, 159 countries have joined the Global Methane Pledge to cut methane emissions. Europe is expanding biomethane use through gas pipeline integration and conversion to bio-CNG, while India is promoting biogas as part of its urban sustainability strategy. In the U.S., biomethane is being used as a natural gas substitute.
Asahi Kasei’s success builds on decades of experience in catalyst design and gas separation technologies. The company has developed a proprietary system that utilizes a Pressure Vacuum Swing Adsorption (PVSA) process and custom zeolite materials to effectively separate carbon dioxide from biogas. This method enables high-purity methane recovery without compromising yield. Zeolites—crystalline materials with precisely structured pores—play a critical role in enhancing the efficiency of gas separation.
The demonstration trial was carried out using biogas derived from sewage sludge at the Kojima Sewage Treatment Plant. Over a continuous one-month operation, the system consistently produced biomethane with over 97% purity and a yield surpassing 99.5%, a notable achievement in the industry where balancing purity and yield remains a challenge. This level of performance confirms its suitability for natural gas grid injection and use as compressed natural gas.
“We are now engaging in active discussions with potential licensees across different regions,” said Kazuya Noda, Senior General Manager at Asahi Kasei’s Materials R&D division. “Following further pilot-scale studies, we aim to introduce this technology to the global market by 2027.”
Asahi Kasei continues to pursue innovations that contribute to environmental sustainability and global energy solutions. The company remains committed to improving quality of life through science-driven progress in its core business sectors: Healthcare, Homes, and Materials. Established in 1922, Asahi Kasei now operates with a global workforce of over 50,000 employees.
