SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS FOR LOCAL AGRICULTURE: FROM SOLAR DRYING TO BIOGAS PURIFICATION
As part of Project 2 under the IUC–QNU Program, Quy Nhon University (QNU) hosted a specialized workshop on the morning of June 29, 2025, to present research progress and results after nearly three years of implementation. The event brought together scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders to discuss technological solutions for sustainable agricultural development.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Duc Tung, Rector of Quy Nhon University, emphasized that QNU consistently plays a pioneering role in research, technology transfer, and community service.
H₂S Adsorbent Materials from Agricultural By-products: A Green Solution for Biogas Systems
A key highlight of the workshop was the presentation by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong – Project Leader of Project 2 – on the synthesis of H₂S adsorbent materials using metal oxides combined with locally available agricultural by-products. These materials have been tested in household-scale biogas systems and demonstrated high efficiency in removing toxic H₂S gas, helping to reduce odors and protect biogas equipment.
“This is a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach with strong potential for replication, especially in rural areas where biogas systems are being developed,” emphasized Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong – Project Leader of Project 2 (IUC-QNU) presenting an overview and progress report of Project 2, along with a talk on the synthesis and evaluation of H₂S adsorbent materials derived from agricultural sources.
Solar-Powered Drying Systems: Enhancing the Agricultural Supply Chain
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thi Ngoc Loan – Project 2 member – introduced an improved solar-powered drying system for agricultural products. The new design reduces energy costs, shortens drying time, and preserves the color and quality of post-harvest produce. The project aims to build a sustainable agricultural supply chain, where technology plays a key role in increasing product value and minimizing post-harvest losses.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thi Ngoc Loan – Member of Project 2 and lecturer at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, presenting on the design and improvement of a solar-powered agricultural drying system adapted for local use.
Connecting Research with Practice: A Necessary Path Forward
Beyond presenting research outcomes, the workshop served as an open forum for dialogue among lecturers, students, cooperatives, and farmers. Attendees appreciated the practical applicability of the technologies, especially in the context of modernizing agriculture with a focus on efficiency and environmental sustainability. Feedback and suggestions were actively shared to guide the next phase of implementation.
Participants engaged in open discussions and provided feedback on the application potential, proposing research and implementation directions for the remainder of Phase 1 and beyond.
Biogas-to-Electricity Conversion at Nhon Tan Experimental Station
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tien Trung – Head of the Research Affairs and International Relations Office – announced that Project 2 is preparing to install biogas-to-electricity conversion equipment at QNU’s Nhon Tan Experimental Station. This facility will support research and training while contributing to the development of renewable energy technologies in one of Vietnam’s key livestock regions.
Scientific workshop held as part of Project 2 (IUC-QNU Program) during the third year of Phase 1.
Commitment to Community Engagement
Speaking at the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Duc Tung – Rector of QNU – reaffirmed the university’s commitment to scientific research, technology transfer, and community service. He expressed gratitude to local partners, especially the 24 farming households in Binh Thanh (Tay Son District) and Phuoc Hung (Tuy Phuoc District), who participated in technology trials and provided valuable feedback. Their involvement has been crucial in ensuring the long-term societal impact of the project.
Project 2 under the IUC–QNU Program is implemented in collaboration with leading Belgian universities, including KU Leuven, Ghent, Hasselt, Antwerp, HOGent, and VIVES. Research topics focus on nanomaterials in renewable energy, solar drying technology, and biogas purification – practical solutions for sustainable agricultural production.
Group photo of workshop participants – Project 2 (IUC-QNU), Phase 1 – Year 3.
Workshop Participants
The workshop welcomed Ms. Nhu Thi Hoang Yen – Head of General and Appraisal Division, Binh Dinh Environmental Protection Sub-department; Ms. Truong Thi Thu Diem – Officer of Agriculture and Forestry, Binh Thanh Commune, Tay Son District; Mr. Tran Tang Long – Director of Phuoc Hung Agricultural Cooperative, Tuy Phuoc District; and 24 local farming households from the pilot communes.
From Quy Nhon University, participants included:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Duc Tung – Rector
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Thi Ngan – IUC-QNU Program Coordinator
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tien Trung – Head of the Research Affairs and International Relations Office
- Dr. Nguyen Van Thang – Executive Director of IUC-QNU
- Representatives from the Office of Science, Technology and International Cooperation; Faculty of Natural Sciences; and Faculty of Engineering and Technology
- Project 2 members, lecturers, graduate students, and undergraduates with interest in sustainable technologies.
