HBI

HB Ponics is an applied research project focused on developing innovative solutions for the valorization of digestion processes, specifically targeting the South Tyrol region. The project aims to enhance the sustainability of agriculture, energy production, and environmental management by leveraging the principles of the circular economy. Initially, the market's needs and opportunities are analyzed through scientific literature reviews and targeted surveys. The project then characterizes digestate both quantitatively and qualitatively, focusing on chemical and physical properties. Based on experimental results, the project aims to optimize the hydrothermal conversion (HTC) process and hydroponic systems. The combined use of HTC process liquid for fertirrigation and hydrochar as a growth substrate is also evaluated. The expertise of the Industrial Technical Physics group at the Free University of Bolzano is utilized for process simulation, employing both open-source and commercial software to develop thermodynamic, kinetic, and system models. HB Ponics aims to produce practical results that impact key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and the environment in South Tyrol. Despite the sustainable nature of anaerobic digestion (AD) of zoo technical waste, it has weaknesses that can be improved. The HTC process offers a promising alternative for treating wet biomass, transforming it into hydrochar and nutrient-rich liquid, thereby reducing economic and environmental costs.

Keywords: hydrothermal conversion, sustainability, agriculture, energy, environment, South Tyrol, circular economy, digestate, hydrochar, fertirrigation.