Overview

• Researchers at UCL and Edinburgh Napier University have adapted pressurised spinning technology to extract cellulose from cow manure using a horizontal nozzle system.
• The process is confirmed to be energy-efficient, scalable, and capable of producing fibers, meshes, and films for applications such as surgical masks, food packaging, and textiles.
• This innovation addresses environmental challenges posed by increasing global animal waste, projected to rise by 40% by 2030, while offering potential new revenue streams for dairy farmers.
• The extracted cellulose, traditionally sourced from plants, is repurposed from manure, embodying circular economy principles by reducing waste and pollution.
• Researchers are now pursuing pilot projects and industry collaborations to test large-scale production and optimize logistics for sourcing and transporting manure.