Episode 3: Biomass

Learn about innovations and research that ARS scientists are conducting to turn farm waste, called biomass, into environmentally friendly products.

Running Time: 20 min
Posted: March 9, 2021

Play Now » Full podcast | Videocast | Transcript

Part 1: Pallets From Almond Shells

Did you know that ARS researchers in Albany, California, have created pallets out of biomass, specifically, discarded, low value almond and walnut shells? Listen | Watch

Read more:

• Optimizing End-Use Applications of Almond and Walnut Shells
• Zero Waste Agricultural Processing

Part 2: Polymers Out of Cotton Gin Trash

ARS is helping the environment by developing biodegradable plastics comprised of biomass, in this case cotton gin trash. Listen | Watch

Read more:

• Composite Films and Cotton Gin Trash 
• Cotton Gin Trash and Polyethylene Composites 

Part 3: Break Time

Before we get to our next story, let's look at other ARS discoveries that could benefit our ecosystem. Listen | Watch

Read more:

• Biobased Kitty Litter is the Cat's Meow
• Turning Feathers into Flower Pots
• Turning Food Waste into Healthful Delights
• Environmentally friendly "Starter" charcoal briquettes

Part 4: Bioproducts From Corn Waste

Corn is used to produce many products resulting in millions of pounds of waste but even byproducts of corn can be turned into bioproducts. Listen | Watch

Read more:

• Using Perennial Grasses for Bioenergy and Other Sources
• Renewable Biobased Particles
• Plant Polymer Research