Launching a Pilot Project to Make Biofuel and Biochemicals out of Rice Husks

Date:Oct. 18, 2023

Country: Japan

Application

• Production of Silica, activated charcoal, biochar and bioenergy

Description

Sumitomo Corporation together with Sony Group Corporation and Sony Intellectual Property Services Corporation will launch a pilot project for using rice husks to make a fossil fuel substitute as well as to manufacture silica and activated charcoal. Large volumes of rice husks are generated as waste products around the world. By using them to produce bioenergy with substantially lower CO2 emissions. Sumitomo Corporation aims to contribute to decarbonization in a way that is economically rational.

Pathway Description:

Converting rice husks into charcoal through thermal decomposition and carbonization. Extracting silica from the charcoal for use as an eco-friendly, high-value material. Transforming silica-extracted charcoal into biochar and activated charcoal, and exploring their applications. Utilizing off-gas generated during charcoal production as renewable energy.