This three-year, $390,261 National Science Foundation project grant will fund research at The Washington University to advance the production of volatile fatty acids from organic wastes through anaerobic digestion. Specifically, the university will investigate using hydrogen peroxide generated via bioelectrochemical conversion to inhibit methanogenesis and maximize valuable chemical yields. Researchers will study inhibition mechanisms, evaluate membrane separation systems, and explore establishing a demonstration platform. The project supports the NSF Engineering program's goal of fostering innovation in engineering research. Findings aim to develop more efficient technologies for recovering chemicals from organic wastes, with potential transformative impacts. Education activities are planned to train students and engage local teachers in environmental resource recovery topics.
Generated 1/6/24, 9:09 PM