Dutch scientists turn office urine into electricity, nutrients and hydrogen

AI Summary

Dutch scientists have developed a bio-electrochemical system that converts urine into electricity, nutrients, and hydrogen. This innovative technology uses bacteria to break down organic matter in urine, producing energy and valuable materials like phosphate and ammonia for fertilizer and hydrogen gas.

Men in a Dutch office toilet became a small power station using a dedicated urinal. This rig extracted phosphate and ammonia while generating electricity for electric cars. Bacteria break down organic matter in urine, transferring electrons to electrodes for current production. Separately collected urine is a promising feedstock for these bio-electrochemical treatment systems. Research shows urine can be a valuable source for fertilizer and hydrogen gas production.