Improving Biofuel Conversion from Animal Waste

2009 DOT-RITA Seed Award

 

PI: Dr. Zhiqiang Hu (University of Missouri, Civil and Environmental Engineering)
Co-PI: Dr. Robert Reed (University of Missouri)

Funded: $70,000

Start Date: 7/1/2009

End Date: 6/30/2011

 

Expected Outcomes

The project outcome includes laboratory-validated procedures for rapid and efficient methane production from animal waste, and technical reports related to the new generation of animal waste management systems for the scientific community and the public.

 

The results of this project will help to build a pilot facility for technology validation before it is commercialized for large-scale applications. The conversion of large volume of high strength animal waste into value-added biogas and other useful byproducts (e.g., Class A biosolids) with accompanied pollutant and odor removal will enhance economic opportunities for farmers and local community to “create new solutions for America’s energy needs and to revitalize rural communities” to achieve the goals of Sun Grant Initiative.