Researchers at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) in Canada are pioneering a green energy project by experimenting with potato peels to produce hydrogen gas, as Caitlin Coombes reports for Saltwire.
Led by Assistant Professor of Engineering Yulin Hu, the team has demonstrated the feasibility of using potato waste as a source for hydrogen production. This innovative approach aims to address food waste while enhancing syngas production. The project, inspired by similar initiatives at Cavendish Farms in P.E.I., has received funding from various sources, including the Climate Challenge Fund, Mitacs, and AKA Energy Systems.
Graduate student Nasim Mia is also involved, focusing on the benefits of UV light in hydrogen production. The experiments involve a darkened box, UV light bulbs, and fluid-filled vials to generate hydrogen. This research aligns with Hu’s broader study on carbon absorption in partnership with Dalhousie University, exploring interim solutions for a greener future.
The team’s goal is to facilitate the transition from petroleum-based to hydrogen-based energy, which they believe will take at least a decade. The success of their published simulations bolsters their confidence in achieving significant results in the coming years.
Source: Saltwire. Read the full story here
Photo: Yulin Hu, left, and Nasim Mia, right. Credit Caitlin Coombes/SaltWire
