Trash to treasure: Cornell’s pyrolysis kiln opens May 24

Technician Akio Enders examines biochar after it is removed from the the new pyrolysis kiln.
Technician Akio Enders examines biochar after it is removed from the the new pyrolysis kiln.

Cornell Chronicle [2018-05-17]:

Cornell scientists will explore turning trash into treasure as Cornell’s new pyrolysis kiln – the largest research kiln of its kind at a U.S. university – will help scientists explore the potential for carbon-negative energy production, producing new biomaterials and creating Earth-friendly biochar.

The pyrolysis kiln officially opens May 24, when Johannes Lehmann, professor of soil science, will hold an open house 2-4 p.m., at the Leland Laboratory building, at Medicago Drive near Caldwell Road on campus.

“This is an opportunity to work with industry or municipalities that have a waste issue and find out if slow pyrolysis is a good option for them,” said Lehmann, a fellow at Cornell’s Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future. “Importantly, we want to let the world know – for academic, governmental or business entities – that we’re here, open and ready for research.”

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