This project demonstrates a pilot-scale biodigester system designed to reduce food waste at NJIT and convert it into useful byproducts such as liquid fertilizer. The system supports campus sustainability goals by promoting waste reduction, resource recovery, and hands-on environmental education. 

About the Project

NJIT generates food waste from dining and campus activities, creating an opportunity to explore sustainable waste management solutions. This project focuses on developing and demonstrating a pilot-scale biodigester system that can process collected food waste and convert it into beneficial outputs.

The biodigester will be housed in a trailer parked at and operated as a demonstration system. The project combines engineering design, environmental sustainability, food waste reduction, and educational outreach.

Project Objectives
•    Demonstrate a pilot-scale biodigester system at NJIT. 
•    Convert food waste into reusable liquid fertilizer. 
•    Support NJIT’s sustainability and circular economy efforts. 
•    Provide a platform for student learning, research, and public demonstration.

How the System Works

Step 1: Food Waste Collection
Food waste is collected from selected campus sources.

Step 2: Grinding and Slurry Preparation 
The collected food waste is processed using a kitchen disposal and mixed with water to form a slurry.

Step 3: Transfer and Mixing in the Biodigester Tank 
The prepared slurry is pumped into the main tank inside the trailer, where it is mixed to support biological breakdown and maintain uniform conditions within the system.

Step 4: Fertilizer Output
The treated liquid product is expected to be used as a fertilizer-like output for demonstration and further evaluation.

Current System

Expected Outcomes
•    Demonstrate a practical food waste reduction system at NJIT.
•    Produce a liquid fertilizer-like output from food waste.
•    Increase campus awareness about sustainable waste management.
•    Support future student research and demonstration activities.
•    Contribute to NJIT’s broader sustainability initiatives.

Collaborating Units:
Newark College of Engineering
Hillier College of Architecture and Design
NJIT Office of Sustainability

Funding Acknowledgment:
Funded by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Project Team

Project Contributors:
1.    Ravisha Mudalige, Graduate Student
2.    Tara Magill, Undergraduate Student
3.    Ravindu Senevirathna, Graduate Research Assistant
4.    Udaysinh U. Patil, Former Graduate Student
5.    Dr. Charmi Chande, Postdoctoral Fellow
6.    Harit Guhananth, Undergraduate Student
7.    Ishani Bakshi, High School Student
8.    Anjali Sinha, High School Student