DLR - In its ongoing commitment to supporting local agriculture, Quy Nhon University (QNU) is gradually translating scientific research into practical applications by introducing advanced technologies such as solar-powered drying systems and biogas air filtration into rural production. These innovations not only enhance economic efficiency and reduce environmental pollution but also pave the way for sustainable rural development—especially in areas under increasing pressure from agricultural waste pollution.

These technological solutions were showcased at a thematic scientific seminar hosted by QNU on the morning of June 29, 2025, as part of Project No. 2 under the IUC-QNU Program. The seminar served as an opportunity for scientists, policymakers, and local residents to reflect on nearly three years of research, experimentation, and technology transfer efforts.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Duc Tung – Rector of Quy Nhon University – reaffirmed QNU’s commitment to taking the lead in research, technology transfer, and community service

H₂S Adsorbent Materials from Agricultural By-products: A Green Solution for Biogas Systems

One of the highlights of the scientific seminar “From Lab to Application: Innovations in Drying and Biogas Air Filtration Technologies” was an in-depth presentation by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong, Project Leader of IUC-QNU Project 2, on the development of H₂S adsorbent materials made from metal oxides and agricultural by-products—readily available local resources. These materials have been practically tested in household biogas systems and have proven highly effective in absorbing toxic hydrogen sulfide gas (H₂S), helping to reduce odors and protect biogas equipment.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong – Project Leader of Project 2 (IUC-QNU) – delivered an overview of the project’s progress and presented a report on the development and evaluation of H₂S adsorbent materials derived from agricultural sources

 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Vuong emphasized: “This is a sustainable, eco-friendly approach with strong potential for scalability, especially in rural areas where biogas systems are being developed.”

Solar-Powered Drying System: Optimizing the Agricultural Supply Chain

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thi Ngoc Loan, a member of Project 2 and lecturer at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, introduced a practical solution involving a solar-powered agricultural drying system. The improved design of this system not only reduces energy costs but also shortens drying time while preserving the quality and color of post-harvest products. She emphasized that the project aims to build a sustainable agricultural supply chain, in which technology plays a key role in enhancing the value of farm produce and minimizing post-harvest losses.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thi Ngoc Loan – Project 2 member and lecturer at the Faculty of Natural Sciences – shared a presentation on the design and improvement of solar-powered agricultural drying systems adapted to local needs

Bridging Research and Practice: A Necessary Path Forward

The seminar served not only as a platform to present research outcomes but also as an open forum for stakeholders—including faculty members, students, representatives of cooperatives, and local farmers—to engage in dialogue. Participants highly appreciated the practical applicability of the technologies introduced, especially in the context of agriculture’s transition toward modernization, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The event also fostered active exchanges, feedback, and strategic direction-setting for the next phase of implementation.

Participants engaged in open discussions and provided feedback on the application potential of these technologies, while also proposing research directions and implementation plans for the next phase

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tien Trung, Head of the Office of Science, Technology and International Cooperation, stated: “In the coming period, Project No. 2 under the IUC-QNU Program will install equipment to convert biogas into electricity at the Nhon Tan experimental site of Quy Nhon University, serving both scientific research and hands-on training.”

Currently, Binh Dinh and Gia Lai are among the provinces with the largest pig farming operations in Vietnam. Notably, as Binh Dinh is preparing for a potential merger with Gia Lai, the region is poised to become one of the country’s largest pig farming hubs.
The investment in this new equipment not only meets practical needs in research and education but also plays a vital role in developing renewable energy technologies—contributing to the promotion of sustainable agriculture in the region.

The seminar was part of Project 2 under the IUC-QNU Program, now in its third year of Phase 1

Speaking at the seminar, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Duc Tung – Rector of Quy Nhon University – emphasized the university’s commitment to playing a pioneering role in research, technology transfer, and community service. He affirmed that the university will continue to connect scientists, businesses, local authorities, and communities to bring scientific knowledge into practice, improve livelihoods, and protect the environment.

This seminar was an opportunity to share key research achievements from nearly three years of implementing Project No. 2 under the IUC-QNU Program, with the collaboration of leading universities in Belgium, including KU Leuven, Ghent, Hasselt, Antwerp, HOGent, and VIVES. The research focuses on the application of nanomaterials in renewable energy, solar-powered drying technologies, and biogas air filtration—practical solutions for sustainable agricultural production.

The Rector also expressed his sincere gratitude for the trust and collaboration of government agencies, local authorities, and especially the farming communities—notably the 24 households from Binh Thanh Commune (Tay Son District) and Phuoc Hung Commune (Tuy Phuoc District) who actively participated in the technology trials and provided valuable feedback. Their engagement has been a crucial factor in ensuring that scientific research delivers lasting value to society.

Vo Thien An