In the realm of Palakkad, nestled within the scenic landscapes of Kerala, a groundbreaking feat has been achieved by the scholars hailing from the Indian Institute of Technology-Palakkad (IIT Palakkad). They have unveiled an avant-garde approach to harnessing renewable energy, and surprisingly, the source is none other than human urine. This innovative endeavor is aimed at addressing the ever-mounting global energy demands.
Embarking on their initial phase, the researchers opted to harness the potential of cow urine to generate electricity. The bovine-derived urine was meticulously collected in a designated chamber before being channeled into an electrochemical resource recovery reactor resembling diminutive glass cells. Within these cells, magnesium served as the anode, while the cathode functioned with the presence of air. In their preliminary exploration, the researchers employed 50 such cells, each adeptly processing 100 milliliters of cow urine.
“The urine-fueled, autonomously propelled stacked electrochemical resource recovery reactor seamlessly integrates with an electrochemical reactor, ammonia adsorption column, decolorization, and chlorination chamber, complemented by plumbing and electrical manifolds. This system proffers a dual advantage, manifesting in power generation for recharging smartphones and lamps, coupled with fostering sustainable agriculture,” expounded the researchers.
Astoundingly, the team achieved an average of 1.5 volts of electricity from a liter of urine, utilizing 10 cells. This generated electricity proved sufficient for charging mobile phones, emergency lamps, and illuminating LED lights. The researchers asserted, “This marks the pioneering exploration of utilizing authentically sourced, segregated cow urine for concurrent nutrient recovery and energy production, employing a laboratory-crafted MAFC.”
Heading this groundbreaking venture was Dr. Praveena Gangadharan, an Assistant Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at IIT-Palakkad. The team, comprising Research Scholar Sangeetha V, Project Scientist Dr. Sreejith PM, and Research Associate Rinu Anna Koshy, all hailing from the Department of Civil Engineering, played a pivotal role in conceiving this innovative device. Their research findings found a home in the February 1 issue of the science journal ‘Separation and Purification Technology.’
The researchers elucidated that post-electricity production, the urine undergoes a transition to another chamber, where it can be transformed into fertilizer utilizing the same urine. This novel method of electricity generation boasts the capability of producing essential plant growth fertilizers such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, thus creating a symbiotic relationship between energy production and agricultural advancement.
The IIT researchers diligently conducted their study with financial backing from the Department of Science and Technology. At present, their discoveries reside at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4, having successfully undergone rigorous laboratory validation.