NCGA Celebrates Innovation with Winners of Consider Corn Challenge V in Omaha

NCGA Celebrates Innovation with Winners of Consider Corn Challenge V

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) held its annual Bio Innovations Midwest Event in Omaha, unveiling the winners of the Consider Corn Challenge V, proudly offering a substantial prize pool of $300,000 to innovative projects that utilize corn to create biobased materials. This year, three standout winners emerged: Aerterra, Terragia, and Arizona State University (ASU). Each of these winners presented groundbreaking solutions that highlight corn's versatile applications in various industries.

Aerterra: Revolutionizing Air Quality

Aerterra has initiated a remarkable approach by developing bio-based, renewable air filters crafted from U.S.-grown corn. These innovative filters are engineered to replace traditional petroleum-based alternatives, paving the way for improved air quality with significantly reduced environmental impact. Aerterra emphasizes its mission, 'Clean Air, Healthy Planet,' as a central theme guiding their efforts.

These filters not only enhance indoor air quality for homes and businesses but also contribute to a substantial decrease in carbon footprints. The company has positioned itself as a leader in the bioeconomy, proving that renewable feedstocks, like corn, can effectively supplant fossil-based materials in everyday household products. Furthermore, Aerterra's subscription model guarantees that customers enjoy performance, sustainability, and ease, proving that products can align consumer health, climate action, and economic growth.

By showcasing how corn-based materials can reduce waste and foster a circular economy, Aerterra demonstrates their commitment to creating a healthier planet.

Terragia: Advancing Ethanol Production

Terragia has developed cutting-edge technology designed to enhance the biological conversion of cellulosic biomass into fuels and products, holding immense promise for corn farmers across the nation. At the core of this technology is the fermentation process of stillage from corn ethanol production. Gathering insights from research at Dartmouth College's Thayer School of Engineering and supported by the Department of Energy's Center for Bioenergy Innovation (CBI), Terragia's unique biotechnological methods utilize thermophilic anaerobic bacteria.

This innovative approach could lead to a 10% increase in ethanol production while yielding higher protein by-products and generating approximately $80 million in annual revenue for a 105 million gallons per year (MGY) plant. Terragia’s aim is to partner closely with producers and the agricultural community to develop co-located projects at existing facilities, resonating with their mission to create additional value for corn farmers.

Arizona State University: Protecting Pipeline Infrastructure

Arizona State University's groundbreaking technology aims to tackle a prevalent issue within the crude oil industry. With about 25% of all reported pipeline accidents in 2024 attributed to corrosion, ASU’s research focuses on developing a corn-derived corrosion inhibitor. This innovative product addresses internal corrosion issues in crude oil pipelines, potentially transforming maintenance practices.

The inhibitor functions by forming a protective film on pipeline interiors, blocking corrosive substances. Non-toxic and environmentally friendly, the product can be integrated at low dosages into crude oil, ensuring its effectiveness while minimizing environmental risks. ASU's continued development involves rigorous electrochemical testing to assess the inhibitor's efficacy and mechanisms, which could potentially open new markets for corn farmers.

A Vision for the Future

The Consider Corn Challenge V not only showcases the ingenuity of the winners but also emphasizes the endless possibilities of corn as a sustainable feedstock. Chad Epler, chair of the Research and New Uses Action Team and a Kansas farmer, reiterated the challenge's importance, stating it serves as a platform to harness corn's potential and drive market demand.

Each winner received $100,000, aimed at accelerating their technologies toward commercialization. With an impressive pool of innovative applications stemming from this year’s challenge, the NCGA reaffirms its commitment to promoting corn as an adaptable, sustainable industry cornerstone. As these projects unfold, they promise to reshape the agricultural landscape, fostering a resilient and efficient bio-based economy.

For further details, visit NCGA's Consider Corn page.