Cow manure has unexpectedly become a source of valuable raw materials. Scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign developed two processing technologies for cow manure that could change industrial production.
The first method makes it possible to extract cellulose microfibers from manure, which can be used to create packaging, textiles, and medical products. It is positioned as an environmentally friendly alternative to wood and cotton, the production of which harms the environment.
The second development focuses on obtaining volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which are important chemicals for the food and pharmaceutical industries. The researchers proposed a nanofiltration system using ion-exchange membranes and electrical pulses, making the process five times more energy efficient.
Both technologies support the principles of a circular economy and are suitable for industrial use, particularly in countries with well-developed livestock production. They help address the problem of waste disposal while reducing climate impact. This is not just “zero-waste” manufacturing—it is an upgrade in thinking. In the future, the phrase “everything to good use” may take on a completely new meaning.
