March 2015

Idea to reality: Build a mobile gasifer that can turn agriculture fibers into a charcoal-like residue, called biochar, that can be used for absorbing liquids, improving water quality and soil characteristcs, and creating energy. AURI’s role: AURI gathered data to find out what chemicals and nutrients were in the biochar and tested its absorbency. Further work on this high-potential project is ongoing. Outcomes: Char Energy was awarded a patent for… Continue Reading Char Energy, LLC

Idea to reality: As alfalfa prices soared over the last two years, Minnesota Valley Alfalfa Producers (MnVAP) saw a need for a lower-priced substitute for alfalfa feed pellets. AURI’s role: AURI helped the co-op develop, formulate, and test a lower-cost, blended-fiber feed pellet. Outcomes: MnVAP will manufacture 5,000 tons of the new feed pellets in 2014, and plans to triple production in 2015.

Idea to reality: Develop a comfortable yet biodegradable mat, as an alternative to rubber, for use in hog farrowing and nursery barns. The mat is made from cornstalks and provides a comfortable bed that improves growing conditions and decreases mortality rates for baby and weaned pigs. AURI’s role: AURI provided connections to a manufacturer and technical resources to help test and develop the product including formulations and adhesives. Outcomes: USA… Continue Reading USA Solutions

Idea to reality: Because soybean meal cannot be fed to some animals due to the soluble sugars, AURI worked with Protein Resouces and Minnesota Soybean on a possible solution. AURI’s role: AURI and Minnesota Soybean conducted research to understand the nutrition of a low-oligosaccharide soybean meal that was easier on animals’ stomachs and shared that knowledge with interested businesses. AURI assisted Protein Resources with product and process development for NutriVance… Continue Reading Protein Resources