DBG utilizes a proprietary enzymatic pre-treatment technology, EpiCellulyse XT™, which pre-hydrolyzes paper sludge, resulting in reduced viscosity levels and improved biogas yields. This technology, invented and patented by Episome Biotechnologies, is exclusively licensed by DBG.

The pre-treatment process involves a combination of a cellulolytic formulation and innovative mixing technology, which has been optimized to aerate the sludge, apply the necessary shear, and continuously transport the sludge through a canal (plugflow). The resulting paste-like material can be easily diluted with water and mixed in traditional anaerobic digestion tanks to prevent settling.

With this process, DBG can transform paper sludge, which is typically incinerated or landfilled, into a feedstock for anaerobic digestion.

Pulp and paper production creates a continuous flow of sludge, making it an excellent long-term feedstock. Additionally, paper sludge is a 4x more energy-dense feedstock than manure, and it has a negative value on the market. DBG has identified 11 million tonnes of paper sludge in Europe with excellent properties for its processes.