Converting Cow Manure into Manufacturing-Grade Cellulose: A New Circular Material Approach

Researchers from University College London (UCL) and Edinburgh Napier University have developed a method to extract cellulose from cow manure and convert it into material suitable for use in various manufacturing applications. The resulting cellulose, a widely used material found in products ranging from food packaging to nonwoven textiles, offers potential for circular, bio-based material sourcing.

Material Innovation Through Agricultural Waste
The technique is the first to derive high-grade cellulose from animal waste. Cow manure contains remnants of digested plant matter, including cellulose. By extracting and processing these fibres, the research introduces a waste-to-resource approach that aligns with circular economy principles — aiming to reduce environmental impact by reusing by-products of the dairy industry.

The cellulose produced has potential applications across multiple sectors, including packaging, consumer products, and textiles, where cellulose-based materials are commonly used.

Process Overview: Horizontal Nozzle-Pressurised Spinning
The researchers employed an adapted technique called horizontal nozzle-pressurised spinning. This process builds on existing fibre manufacturing methods, using pressure and rotation to form fibres, meshes, films, and ribbons from a liquid solution. Unlike other fibre-making technologies such as electrospinning, this method does not require high voltage, and is considered relatively energy-efficient.

To extract the cellulose, mild chemical treatments and homogenisation were used. The solution was then processed using the horizontal spinning setup, which proved more effective than a vertical configuration. The researchers were able to produce multiple forms of cellulose material, each suited to different manufacturing purposes.

Potential Applications in Design and Manufacturing
Cellulose is widely used in materials for packaging, medical and hygiene products, textiles, films, and paper goods. The manure-derived alternative may be of particular interest to packaging and product designers seeking bio-based or circular materials. For textile applications, the process could offer sustainable alternatives for nonwoven fabrics and composites.

This development may also appeal to designers looking to integrate circular practices into their work by utilising materials with reduced environmental impact and lower dependence on virgin resources.

Environmental and Industry Context
Cow manure is often produced in volumes that exceed what can be safely used as fertiliser, contributing to waterway pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and potential health risks. The proposed technique offers a way to repurpose this waste, with potential environmental benefits and reduced disposal burdens for dairy farms.

According to the researchers, adapting existing spinning machinery to the new horizontal configuration is feasible. However, logistical considerations such as collecting and transporting raw manure remain a challenge.

The team is currently exploring opportunities to scale the process in collaboration with industry partners, including dairy farms.

The study presents a method for converting agricultural waste into a widely used material, supporting ongoing efforts in sustainable material development. The technique introduces an alternative pathway for sourcing cellulose and may contribute to broader goals in reducing material waste, supporting circular economies, and developing lower-impact manufacturing solutions.

Source: UCL News
Photo: Catkin