Problem
Rice hulls are among the most abundant agricultural wastes generated in the Philippines. The estimated production of rice hulls in the country is about two million metric tons annually, and only 5% of these are utilized productively, mainly as a source of fuel for household cooking. The remaining 95% are burned or left to rot.
Solution
Rice hulls are rich in silica. Over 90% of silica can be recovered after combustion of this agricultural by-product. By utilizing rice hulls to produce silicate mineral paints, we add value to this so-called agri-waste, addressing the issue of its disposal. Extraction of silica from rice hull ash is also more energy efficient. The reaction requires a temperature not more than 700℃, while the traditional extraction of silica from sand requires about 1500℃.
Value proposition:
No Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
No Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
Alkalinity reduces the chances of microbial formation
Less dense/lightweight equates to transportation advantages
1-hour fire resistivity
High adhesion rating
Areas of development:
Improvement of hardness property
Pilot testing and Market feasibility studies
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