Scientists Say Sewage Can Produce Cheap Hydrogen
Researchers at Oregon State University have made game-changing discovery in the field of hydrogen fuel cell production. They believe that biowaste— such as simple municipal sewage—can produce hydrogen at a lower cost than traditional electrolysis technology.
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Oregon State’s system works by attaching microorganisms from sewage to an anode’s surface and degrading the waste in the sewage using a battery-like device. The waste then decomposes and leaves protons that move to the cathode, combine with electrons, and ultimately create hydrogen.
The new approach could reduce the amount of energy needed for hydrogen production— and help hydrogen reach the US Department of Energy cost goal of $2 to $3 per gallon.
And as if that wasn’t enough, the hydrogen system also cleans the sewage water it uses, provoking speculation that perhaps sewage will one day be a valued commodity instead of a smelly nuisance.
Although interesting, I am wondering what is the nature of the discovery. Microbial fuel cells have been under research for a couple of years now and a large volume of literature already exists on the topic. Hydrogen production using a small electric supplement has been considered.
Two great advancements in a single week? Nanotube storage and cheap production of hydrogen. This is absolutely amazing!
Imagine how much further we could go if the government actively supported this research with the kind of money we ship over to Iraq every month to kill people who have a dubious connection to terrorism.
We can and will overcome our energy problems whenever we decide to do so. I’m absolutely convinced of that.
I think this is really cool stuff. Hydrogen has made some incredible advancements lately.