BKT/Tomorrow Water’s DRACO technology takes sludge treatment one step further. Learn how moving from THP to HTC achieves deeper sludge reduction, higher biogas output, and greater economic benefits for utilities.
Rethinking THP: Is More Biogas Enough?
Across the wastewater sector, many utilities have adopted the Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP) to boost biogas production from sludge and organic waste. While THP is effective in increasing yields, it requires significant energy inputs such as electricity and LNG. In short, it consumes energy to produce energy.
At BKT/Tomorrow Water, we began asking an important question:
“Is it truly worth using more energy just to get more biogas?”
The answer came from our clients. For many, the greatest challenge was not how much biogas they could produce, but the rising cost of sludge disposal.
Why HTC Matters More
This is where Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) makes a difference. By applying slightly higher temperatures and pressure than THP, DRACO can perform as HTC.
Unlike THP, which stops at hydrolysis, HTC advances further into dehydration and decarboxylation. This process completely breaks down the cellular structure of sludge, releasing bound water and enabling deep dewatering.
✅ The results are clear:
- Up to 80% sludge volume reduction
- With a dryer, up to 90% reduction
- Enhanced biogas production, just like THP, but with far greater economic benefit
DRACO: One Technology, Two Modes
The DRACO system is capable of operating under both THP and HTC conditions. This unique flexibility allows facilities to begin with THP, while evolving toward HTC as sludge treatment challenges intensify.
At BKT/Tomorrow Water, we believe true innovation comes from asking what really benefits our clients—not only today but well into the future. That is why DRACO continues to go beyond hydrolysis, delivering maximum value, economic efficiency, and sustainability.
One Step Beyond Hydrolysis
Sometimes, making a difference only takes one more step. With DRACO, that step is moving from THP to HTC—unlocking the future of sludge treatment with deeper reduction, lower costs, and greater benefits for society.
Don’t just stop at THP—take the next step with DRACO HTC.
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