Researchers See Promise in Poultry Waste for Biofuels

In Israel, Scientists from the American Associates-Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have found a new use for turkey droppings. They believe turkey and other poultry waste hold promise as a renewable fuel for heat and electricity.

The potential of poultry poop is large since huge amounts of it are produced worldwide, and the production will continue to increase as the world population grows and consumes more animal protein. The scientists also believe that treated poultry waste could replace as much as 10% of coal used in generating electricity.

The scientists compared two processes that turned poultry droppings into fuel. In the first process, they heated the excrement to create biochar, a fuel that looks and burns like charcoal. In the second, they made hydrochar using a process known as hydrothermal carbonization that mimics natural coal formation. They found that hydrochar generated 24% more energy than the biochar.

This technology could turn waste into a significant source of energy and nutrients, helping to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.