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Modern technologies allow us to transform waste into useful resources, and one of the most interesting examples is the extraction of methane from wastewater and its subsequent use in chemical production.
Startup Photo-on-demand Chemicals Co Ltd, founded in 2024 at Kobe University, proved the effectiveness of the method of obtaining methane from waste and converting it into phosgene (COCl2) – a valuable chemical compound. Leads the research Associate Professor Tsuda Akihikowho developed the method organic photosynthesis, which uses ultraviolet radiation to affect mixtures of chlorine, oxygen and methane. The technology fits into the concept “green transformation” Japan, aimed at reducing greenhouse emissions.
Phosgene, although a toxic gas, is widely used in manufacturing polyurethane, pharmaceuticals, adhesives and fragrancesThe scientist notes:
The patented technology allows for the instant conversion of phosgene into safe and useful compounds, which opens up broad prospects for environmentally friendly chemical production.
The implementation of this idea has already begun: experimental tests are being conducted at a wastewater treatment plant in the city KobeChemical companies from Japan and other countries have shown interest in the development, and the startup has signed a research agreement with DKS Co. Ltd.As Cuda summarized: “We are a company that makes medicine from feces”, emphasizing the potential of using biowaste for sustainable chemical production.
