Fr. Antonio M. Basilio, SJ, recently had a research networking trip at Huaqiao University (HQU)’s Chemical Engineering Department in China on 21-22 September 2023. The visit, organized by the Confucius Institute and Ateneo Internationalization for Mindanao, introduced Fr. Basilio to the HQU’s international office and its scientists.
During his two-day stay in Xiamen, Fr. Basilio was given the opportunity to present his research to professors and post-doctoral scholars in HQU’s Chemical Engineering Department department.
On the afternoon of 21 September, he presented his work on the extraction of bromelain solids from pineapple wastes, his efforts in developing circular economy projects for the utilization of PET plastics, and his novel method for the isolation of chitin from fish scales.
Fr. Tony was also introduced to their research activities that focused on the utilization of biomass materials as a source of new energy, new spices, new materials, and new feeds. According to the chair of the department, “Biomass resources are the only renewable carbon source, and the construction of a theoretical and technical system for a ‘low-carbon conversion of biomass’ has made important contributions to the green and low-carbon development of the industrial economy of the Fujian Province.” Furthermore, the Xiamen scientists have presented their published works in catalysis and bio-feeds for their booming pigs’ industry.
Prof. Liming Lu, representing the Academy of Advanced Carbon Technology, reached out to Fr. Basilio, expressing interest in utilizing waste pineapple for pig feed production.
China’s contributions to science are truly remarkable, with their profound applications to agriculture and technology. In addition, academe has strong linkages to businesses. One local told Fr. Tony, “When scientists and businessmen meet, they produce a lot of money,” and gave an example of those who formulated the beauty facial masks have earned so much in the past years – these people came from the province of Fujian.
Article and Photos by Fr. Antonio M. Basilio, SJ
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