Applying new technologies for converting agro-forestry by-products into high-value carbon materials

On October 14, the Dong Nai Union of Science and Technology Associations and Queensland University of Technology in Australia co-organized an international scientific conference entitled "New Technologies for Converting Agro-Forestry By-products into High-Value Carbon Materials: International Trends and Application Potential in Dong Nai City and Southern Provinces and Cities."

The event brought together Huynh Thi Hang, Deputy Secretary of the Dong Nai City Party Committee and Chairwoman of the city's Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee; scientists and experts from universities in Vietnam and abroad; and representatives of mechanical engineering and agricultural enterprises from several southern provinces and cities.

An overview of the international scientific conference. Photo: B. Nguyen

In Dong Nai City and other southern provinces and cities, agricultural production and the processing of agro-forestry products generate a wide range of biomass by-products. If these by-products are not collected, treated, or properly utilized, they can result in wasted resources, environmental challenges, and higher production costs. However, with appropriate scientific and technological solutions, these by-products can serve as raw materials for new production processes, contributing to increasing the value of resource utilization and improving economic efficiency.

The event focused on key topics, including the carbon materials economy; next-generation energy storage technologies derived from agricultural by-products; biochar and circular solutions for low-emission agriculture; and the application of pyrolysis technology to convert agro-forestry by-products into energy and carbon materials. The event also provided a platform for connecting scientific research with practical production and industrial needs, facilitating knowledge exchange and strengthening international cooperation.

Delegates take part in discussions at the event. Photo: B. Nguyen

Speaking at the event, Huynh Thi Hang, Deputy Secretary of the City Party Committee and Chairwoman of the city's Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee, emphasized that this was the first time Dong Nai had hosted an international scientific conference entitled "New Technologies for Converting Agro-Forestry By-products into High-Value Carbon Materials: International Trends and Application Potential in Dong Nai City and Southern Provinces and Cities." The participation of experts and scientists from Queensland University of Technology was a valuable source of encouragement and helped strengthen educational and scientific research ties between Vietnam and Australia.

Hoang Thi Bich Hang, President of the Dong Nai Union of Science and Technology Associations, presents gifts of appreciation to professors and scientists from Vietnam and Queensland University of Technology (Australia). Photo: B. Nguyen

Against the backdrop of a global transition toward green growth, a circular economy, and development driven by science, technology, and innovation, Dong Nai holds strategic advantages in industry, agriculture, and agricultural processing. The city is also experiencing rapid urban and service growth and has an extensive network of enterprises. Throughout its development, Dong Nai has consistently sought to harmonize economic growth with environmental protection, efficient utilization of natural resources and sustainability. Therefore, the event’s objectives are also closely aligned with the city's strategic development goals.

The event served as a platform for cooperation, enabling scientists to share research findings, technologies, and international experience in converting agricultural by-products into carbon materials. It also provided an opportunity to exchange experience in the practical application of these technologies in accordance with the specific conditions of Dong Nai and other southern provinces and cities.

By Binh Nguyen – Translated by Minh Hong, Thu Ha