Konkuk University (KU) announced that research by Professor Sang Hyun Lee of the Department of Biological Engineering was selected by the Ministry of Science, ICT, and Future Planning as one of the “100 Outstanding National R&D Projects.” The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to emphasize the importance of R&D and encourage scientists and researchers. On July 6, 2016, a ceremony took place at the Gwacheon National Science Museum for Professor Lee and other researchers.
Professor Lee has developed biorefinery technologies that separate fat from food waste, then use the fat to produce biodiesel and surfactants in an environmentally friendly way. Traditional biorefinery technologies, on the other hand, use organic solvents, acids, and bases, therefore causing environmental damage in the process. In addition to biodiesel, Professor Lee’s research team has produced absorbents and biodegradable films. Once fat is removed from food waste, carbohydrates and proteins are also recovered for composite material and microbial cultures. Through fermentation, the research team was able to produce bioethanol, biodegradable polymers, and antibiotics.
“If food waste can be a source of biomass, it will bring significant economic benefits,” said Professor Lee. “Successfully commercializing the biorefinery technologies would not only change people’s perception of food waste, but Korea can also become a leader in effectively transforming food waste into a resource.”