Researchers develop junk-powered generator

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a portable generator that is powered with trash.

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The machine is called the tactical biorefinery and was originally designed for the U.S. Army. Researchers now believe that the machine can also be used in civilian situations such as in case of emergencies.

The machine is about the size of a van and can process several types of junk material that include waste paper, plastic, Styrofoam, cardboard and food waste.

Mainly two processes are used to create fuel. Initially the machine separates food material into a bioreactor that uses yeast ferments to convert it into ethanol.

The remaining materials go to the gasifier and are converted into methane and propane. These gases then fuel the diesel engine that creates electricity.

The system has been designed to run on diesel oil for several hours before the machine starts producing any fuel.

According to the researchers the machine is much more environment friendly as it does not produce any harmful gases. The carbon-dioxide that is produced during the process is absorbed by the plants and is converted to pure oxygen.

Also the researchers stated that the system produces 90% more energy than it consumes.

Via: cnet