Wisconsin Patent of the Month – January 2025
DVO, Inc. has pioneered a groundbreaking method for nutrient recovery that addresses one of the most pressing environmental challenges in agriculture: managing the vast amounts of waste generated by livestock. Their innovative system transforms anaerobic digester effluent—a byproduct of manure processing—into valuable nutrients, reducing environmental harm and creating sustainable agricultural solutions.
At the heart of DVO’s invention is a plug flow aeration reactor, where anaerobic digester effluent is heated and aerated to convert soluble ammonium into gaseous ammonia. This ammonia is then captured in the reactor’s headspace and directed to stripping towers, where it reacts with controlled amounts of acid to form ammonium salts—a key component of fertilizers. The process doesn’t stop there; unreacted ammonia is further processed in a second stripping tower, ensuring maximum nutrient recovery.
What makes this system truly remarkable is its efficiency and adaptability. By utilizing waste heat from biogas engine generators, DVO’s method minimizes energy consumption. Micro-aerators optimize aeration rates, while the integration of biogas and effluent mixing enhances overall system performance. Additionally, the system recovers phosphorus-rich solids, offering a dual nutrient recovery solution that reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
This technology is a game-changer for livestock operations, which often struggle with nutrient overloads that threaten water and air quality. By converting waste into valuable resources, DVO’s method not only mitigates environmental risks but also supports the agricultural industry’s shift toward sustainability. It’s a brilliant example of how innovation can turn a global challenge into an opportunity for growth and environmental stewardship.
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