Using Food Waste to Generate Renewable Thermal Energy and Support Agriculture and Horticulture

About two thirds of the world’s renewable energy comes from biomass. One method of converting biomass into thermal energy is aerobic digestion of organic matter, which is more effective than anaerobic digestion. This study examines this potential by composting biowaste in a closed container known as a Heat Extraction Unit (HEU) created especially for the task. This project aims to utilise the thermal energy upon biodegradation of solid waste. Sealed tanks, with optimised ratios of food waste and fluids are stored until they decompose and produce a high temperature environment in turn making the fluids possess high thermal energy amounts that allow for extractions and heat production. The leftover compost will then be introduced to microplastic rich soils to aid in water retention and soil quality.