Egg shells might become an energy resource

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists have created a patented technology that turns discarded chicken eggshells into an alternative energy resource.

Ohio State University engineers said the process uses eggshells to absorb carbon dioxide from a reaction that produces hydrogen fuel. It also includes a unique method of peeling the collagen-containing membrane from the interior of the shells, allowing the collagen to become commercially usable.

Professor L.S. Fan, former doctoral student Mahesh Iyer and recent graduate Theresa Vonder Haar developed the process.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the country produced nearly 91 billion eggs in 2006. That equates to about 455,000 tons of shell per year that could potentially be used in hydrogen production.

"We like that our technology can help the egg industry to dispose of its waste, and, at the same time, convert the waste to a useful product," Fan said.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International

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