Deponiegase

Deponiegase, or landfill gas, is a gas mixture generated during the anaerobic decomposition of organic waste in landfills. It forms when deposited waste is degraded by microorganisms in oxygen-poor conditions, producing gases as byproducts. The primary components are methane and carbon dioxide, with smaller amounts of non-methane organic compounds, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen, oxygen, and trace volatile organic compounds. The exact composition depends on factors such as waste composition, moisture content, temperature, and the age of the landfill.

Methane is the most energy-rich component and a potent greenhouse gas, while carbon dioxide contributes to the gas's overall heat-trapping effect. Although landfill gas can be a source of energy, it also poses environmental and safety concerns. Methane is flammable and explosive in certain concentrations, and releases of landfill gas can contribute to odor problems and potential migration into nearby soils, buildings, or basements. Hydrogen sulfide and other trace compounds can pose health and odor concerns for nearby communities.

Management and utilization practices aim to reduce emissions and recover energy. Most modern landfills install gas collection and control systems with wells and piping to capture the gas. Collected gas can be flared to destroy methane or used in energy projects to generate electricity or heat. Ongoing monitoring of gas composition and flow is typically required to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.