WVU Tech students create energy solutions in the new Alternative Energy Laboratory. Utilizing used vegetable oil from the campus cafeteria to create biodiesel, students are gaining experience now in the fuels of the future.
Students process the oil through a series of filters to remove food particles, and then create a small batch to analyze the quality. A byproduct of this process, pure glycerin, is used to create hand soap.
“The emphasis of the work we do with our Alternative Energy Lab is teaching. We are currently working with other departments to create new learning opportunities with automating the process with our engineering students,” commented Dr. Richard Schoening, Chair of the WVU Tech Chemistry Department.
Biodiesel is a simple technology in high demand in today’s energy market because it offers a better fuel. An engine using biodiesel created from vegetable oil decreases carbon dioxide emissions, and emits no sulfur, which creates acid rain. Also, the biodiesel lubricates the engine since oil is the starting material.
“Biodiesel offers a fantastic transition for the next generation of fuels. It can be blended with traditional diesel to create a less expensive and cleaner fuel,” according to Dr. Hasan El-Rifai, WVU Tech Chemistry Professor.
Currently, the Bear’s Den produces one 55-gallon barrel per week. This oil needs to be treated before it is dumped in the sewer. We are creating an alternative fuel to diesel and the byproduct, which is soap from this used vegetable oil.
“This is a fantastic project for our campus in a number of ways. First, we pay about $6,000 a year to a service to remove the oil, and I can’t even begin to calculate the savings on potential fuel costs. Also, we provide our students hands-on experience with a new technology in high demand,” said David Templeton, Assistant Director of Dining Services at WVU Tech.
Future plans for biodiesel may include the production of fuel for WVU Tech vehicles. Other options include using an electric generator fueled with biodiesel to power up the Bear’s Den and decrease the electric bill. Demonstrating the technology to local high school students also increases our outreach to the local community.
The key aspect of the process is the institution’s new bioreactor, which was funded with a NASA grant. Additional measuring and processing instruments were acquired with Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) grants as well as institutional funds.