Advanced Aerobic Thermophilic Treatment of Liquid Wastes or Liquid Waste Slurries
Project Leader: James Blackburn
Unit: College of Engineering, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes
Brief Description:
This invention involves the use of microorganisms operating in the thermophilic range to oxidize organic wastes in liquid waste or liquid waste slurries. Heat generated from the reaction is sufficient for utilization as a source of energy. A primary application of this technology is to treat hog wastes from large farming operations for odor reduction, waste biodegradation, and heat generation.
Patent Status:
U.S. Patent No. 6,730,224, issued May 4, 2004.
Potential Commercial Uses:
This technology may have multiple advantages including:
- Greatly reduced waste odor, particularly in hog waste lagoons.
- Energy generation may be used for various heating purposes such as hog nurseries, hydroponic operations, or aquaculture.
- Treated waste is a higher quality product.
- Rate of biodegradation and resulting useful product is increased.
- Ease of disposal of liquid waste or liquid waste slurries.
Contact:
Jeff Myers, Senior Technology Transfer Specialist, (618) 453-4543, fax: (618) 453-8038