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The use of technology in the research environment focuses on improving the development of the agricultural sector in Indonesia and pays attention to the impact upstream and downstream. This initiative is reflected in the actions of eight students from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), who created an innovation known as Biomate, which utilises the Internet of Things (IoT). The primary purpose of this innovation is to reduce the impact of organic waste generated by food industry players in the downstream sector.
The creation of this innovation came as a response to the great fire that hit the Sarimukti Final Disposal Site (TPA), located in Cipatat District, West Bandung Regency. This tragic incident included the event in which the fire quickly spread and burned an area of 10 hectares in the TPA area. The fire could be suspected to be triggered by a mixture of organic and inorganic waste in the TPA, creating conditions prone to destructive fires.
One potential contributor to the incident is a mixture of organic waste that undergoes anaerobic decomposition. This decomposition process produces unwanted stench and releases methane gas into the atmosphere.
This methane gas, a by-product of the decomposition of organic waste, is not only a cause of unpleasant odours but also contributes to the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. On a broader scale, increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases such as methane can impact global warming and climate change.
Awareness of the potential of methane gas as an energy source, especially in the context of use for cooking, prompted the students to target the food and beverage (FnB) business sector. Data shows Indonesia holds the title of the second-largest waste contributor in the world. When averaged, each individual contributes 300 kg of waste.
Another thing to pay attention to is food waste. In fact, according to waste processing data for 2017/2018, the National Waste Management Information System (SIPSN) for food waste accounts for 46.75% of the total waste in Indonesia.
To address this problem, they created Biomate to reduce the impact of organic waste generated by FnB business players while providing financial benefits through gas expenditure savings. Naufal, one of Biomate’s designers, explained, “Biomate was initiated to provide an effective and profitable solution for FnB business players.”
The process continues after the gas is formed by flowing into a specially designed gas storage container. It is important to note that the concentration of methane gas that can be used as fuel is reached when it reaches a level of more than 50%.
Bene explained, “When the concentration reaches that threshold, the methane gas produced is ready to be used as fuel. To ensure the smooth and efficient operation of this process, we have integrated the Biomate system with IoT technology, so that each stage can be monitored carefully.”
The application of IoT technology in Biomate provides significant added value, especially in monitoring, maintaining, and analysing the biogas process on a sustainable basis. Bene highlighted the critical role of IoT as a tool to ensure Biomate’s optimal performance and support efficient management.
IoT technology within Biomate acts as a multifaceted tool, providing continuous oversight and facilitating preventive maintenance measures. It ensures the system’s longevity and enables swift responses to anomalies or deviations in the biogas production cycle.
“IoT serves as our eyes and ears throughout the entire Biomate operation. It allows us to address any issues, conduct remote diagnostics, and make data-driven decisions for sustained efficiency,” Bene added.
Further, IoT allows real-time data. The system can adapt and optimise its performance over time by continuously collecting and analysing data on gas production, storage, and utilisation. The IoT integration in Biomate exemplifies a commitment to smart, sustainable technology that goes beyond the immediate benefits of waste.
