NUS researchers lead effort to turn food waste into electrical energy, fertilisers

A team of researchers led by Assoc Prof Tong Yen Wah from the Dept of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NUS Faculty of Engineering and Dr Zhang Jingxin from the NUS Environmental Research Institute  has developed a self-sustaining anaerobic digestion system that converts leftover food into electricity. The anaerobic digester breaks down organic matter in an environment devoid of oxygen using a specially formulated mix of anaerobic microorganisms. Excess electricity powers a locker-like charging station that can charge mobile phones and tablets. A nutrient-rich substance is also left over from the anaerobic digestion process, which can be processed to produce liquid fertiliser. 

• The Straits Times, 16 May 2018, Home, pB1
• Lianhe Zaobao, 18 May 2018, p11