Rice husks to H2; wet combustion technology converts waste organic materials to hydrogen and other value-added materials
19 September 2011
The Institute of Chemical and Engineering Sciences (ICES), an Institute of The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) (Singapore), is collaborating with Shion Pte Ltd (Shion), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japan’s Science System Corporation Shion Inc., in a 18-month project to further develop wet combustion technology invented by Science System Corporation Shion Inc.
Science System Corporation Shion Inc. developed wet combustion technology to convert waste organic materials, particularly rice husks, to hydrogen and other value-added materials using water in a novel hexagonal batch reactor. Products such as pyroligneous acid (wood vinegar) could be used in the building, chemical, medical or agricultural sectors.
In this collaboration, ICES will assist Shion in developing a continuous process of their technology. Both parties will also investigate the best mix of products to make for maximum economic value. The process will be run continuously for a significant period of time to demonstrate its technical viability and robustness for mass production.
Singapore takes the issues of sustainability and security of supply of fuels and chemicals very seriously. We are heavily dependent on fossil fuels, as are many countries, and diversifying towards more sustainable resources is an important global issue, not only for Singapore but for many countries. We are happy to work with Shion in this project and believe that this collaboration will be one of the ways to tackle the challenges facing society today.
—Dr. Keith Carpenter, Executive Director, ICES
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