A research team at the South
Dakota School of Mines & Technology is beginning work on pilot scale
testing of new methods that turn biorefinery waste into valuable products. The waste
biomass or byproducts generated by ethanol plants and other biorefineries, such
as corn stover, are normally thrown away—but finding cost-effective means of using
this waste to make new products will generate extra revenue for the facilities,
help lower fuel costs, reduce carbon emissions, and ultimately help
farmers.
“This is one more way SD Mines is
pioneering research that helps the environment while increasing efficiency and
profit margins for our industry partners.
This is the kind of work that can have a positive impact on the economy
of South Dakota,” says SD Mines Vice President of Research Ralph Davis, Ph.D.
Rajesh Shende, Ph.D., professor in
the chemical and biological engineering department at SD Mines, is leading the
research. This work began in Shende’s lab with a
$2.16 million grant from the Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Offi...