Turning Areca Leaf Sheath Waste into Useful Green Products

Areca leaf sheaths, once considered agricultural waste, have been transformed by BIGNANOTECH into useful products such as bowls, plates, and dishes. These products are widely used in both domestic and international markets.

Recognizing the potential of the abundant areca leaf sheaths in Quang Ngai Province—one of Vietnam’s largest areca-growing regions—we conceived the idea of repurposing this waste. This not only helps increase farmers’ income but also serves as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic waste.

In Quang Ngai, fresh areca nuts are harvested, dried, sorted, packed, and then distributed to local dealers or exported directly to markets in China, India, Taiwan, and beyond. The collection and repurposing of areca leaf sheaths into consumer products provide an additional income stream for areca farmers in Quang Ngai.

After being collected, the areca leaf sheaths are cleaned, soaked to soften, and drained. They are then molded into shape using a heat press, sterilized with UV light, and finally packaged.

Bowls, plates, and dishes made from areca leaf sheaths undergo meticulous craftsmanship before being boxed for sale.

As the world grapples with plastic waste management and searches for sustainable solutions, the use of areca leaf sheath products as an alternative to single-use plastic dishes is emerging as a new market trend. These eco-friendly products are of comparable quality to disposable plastic utensils and similarly priced. Made entirely from natural areca leaf sheaths, they are environmentally friendly and easy to dispose of.

Products can be made in many diverse shapes, images or text can be printed on the product according to customer needs.

Given the global commitment to green practices and environmental protection, products like those made from areca leaf sheaths are gaining international popularity. Currently, areca leaf sheath products are available in South Korea, Canada, Poland, the United States, and have received positive feedback.

Additionally, our areca leaf sheath products have been adopted by a domestic airline for use in their business class service.

Areca leaf sheath bowls and plates are highly affordable, available in various designs to meet consumer demand, reusable, and environmentally friendly, making them a favorite in foreign markets.

Besides areca leaf sheaths, we have also developed a line of bowls and plates made from the leaves of the coastal tra tree. These products are particularly popular in the U.S. market.

For more information on products, please contact:
BIG NANO TECHNOLOGY
Hotline: (+84) 879 808 080 – (+84) 868 939 595
Email: sales@bignanotech.com

Vietnam Could Become Asia’s Green Hydrogen Production Hub Due to Vast Resources

Leveraging its vast marine resources along with ample sunshine and wind, Vietnam has the potential to become Asia’s green hydrogen production hub.

Ms. Huynh Thi Kim Quyen – president and general director The Green Solutions Group Joint Stock Company

This perspective was shared by Ms. Huynh Thi Kim Quyen, CEO of The Green Solutions Group, at a conference on Vietnam’s Hydrogen Energy Development Strategy through 2030, with a vision to 2050, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade on February 22.

Great Potential for Green Energy

As the investor of the first green hydrogen project in Tra Vinh, Ms. Quyen highlighted that Vietnam’s 3,260 km coastline and abundant renewable energy sources—sun, wind, and seawater—are key components for sustainable green hydrogen production.

“This is a significant opportunity for Vietnam, with conditions not available in many countries globally. We have sunshine, wind, and seawater—endless resources that can create new fuel for humanity. However, turning this opportunity into reality requires strong government commitment and supportive policies for green hydrogen development,” said Ms. Quyen.

Discussing the $1.4 billion project in Tra Vinh, Ms. Quyen mentioned that before launching, the group spent two years researching green hydrogen and chose the globally prevalent alkaline electrolysis technology.

However, she pointed out significant challenges, including the need for comprehensive policy mechanisms, standards, investment in high-tech human resources, and technology. Additionally, green hydrogen production is costly, necessitating supportive policies to reduce costs and promote sustainable technology.

The CEO of The Green Solutions also mentioned the potential of green hydrogen production to sell carbon credits via green ammonia products, presenting a golden opportunity for Vietnam amid the growing carbon credit market. Thus, the Tra Vinh green hydrogen project has secured green financing from international financial institutions and banks.

Overcoming Challenges to Promote Green Hydrogen

“If Vietnam successfully builds and implements a green hydrogen industry based on its available opportunities and foundations, it could transition from an agricultural economy to a green industry, bypassing the heavy industry development phase,” said Ms. Quyen.

According to the plan, the project has commenced basic construction and received permits. Technical and specialized steps are being expedited to launch officially in Q3-2024, aiming to complete construction by 2026 and produce the first products by early 2027.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien

Vietnam’s Hydrogen Energy Development Strategy, approved by the Prime Minister on February 7, 2024, opens new development avenues for the country’s energy sector towards a green, clean, and sustainable future.

The strategy aims to develop Vietnam’s hydrogen energy ecosystem based on renewable energy, encompassing production, storage, transportation, distribution, domestic use, and export with a modern, synchronized infrastructure, contributing to net-zero emissions by 2050.

The strategy outlines solutions like diversifying funding sources and investment forms, attracting private and international partners, enhancing investment in science and technology, human resources, and applying market tools to promote green growth, low-carbon economy, and circular economy.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien stated that to effectively implement the strategy and develop projects, the ministry will quickly draft and submit specific plans to authorities to achieve the set goals and solutions, ensuring consistency and synchronization.

Simultaneously, the ministry will focus on revising, supplementing, and issuing new regulations and policies related to hydrogen energy, contributing to completing the policy and legal framework. This includes monitoring and expediting hydrogen energy projects, promptly addressing any challenges.

Source: Tuoi Tre Newspaper.

H2FLY highlights feasibility of hydrogen propulsion technology

Hydrogen-electric powertrain developer H2FLY is focused on proving the feasibility of the promising clean technology, according to Professor Dr Josef Kallo, co-founder and CEO.

Earlier this month Californian eVTOL developer Joby conducted a first-of-its-kind hydrogen-electric demonstration, with its prototype air taxi demonstrator successfully making a 523 mile flight “with water as the only by-product”. It is believed to be the first forward flight of a hydrogen-powered VTOL aircraft.

Joby designed and built the demonstrator’s liquid hydrogen fuel tank (capable of storing up to 40kg of liquid fuel), which feeds hydrogen into a fuel cell system, designed and built by H2FLY.

Speaking to Aerospace Global News, H2FLY’s Dr Kallo said: “We are looking first of all to show the technology is feasible. It is possible from a functional perspective to have high continuous power installed in an aircraft and also have the fuel there for a couple of hours. This is a very good achievement to show that not only does technology have to be there, but we have to now step into the qualification part.”

He added: “We are part of the Joby universe, which makes me very proud. In the last couple of weeks we could show that it is also possible to fly with a liquid hydrogen propulsion system that was developed by Joby.”

The Stuttgart, Germany-based company achieved another record-breaking flight in September 2023 when it made the world’s first piloted flight of a liquid hydrogen-electric aircraft using its proprietary fuel cell technology.

H2FLY has secured funding from the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) as part of its regional commercial aircraft fuel cell development, aiming to develop and test a high-performance system with an output of 350kW. The funding marks the commencement of the BALIS 2.0 Project, launched at Stuttgart Airport.

H2FLY is the leader of the initiative, set to receive €9.3 million from the BMDV over the next two years, with funding also provided as part of the German Recovery and Resilience Plan (DARP) via the European Recovery and Resilience Facilities (ARF) in the NextGenerationEU programme.

Source: Aerospace Global News

Developing hydrogen energy adapts to the context and energy transition situation in the world

The development of hydrogen energy is a crucial strategy in the context of global energy transition, especially when many countries are aiming for net-zero emissions. Vietnam is no exception, with specific goals and a clear roadmap to develop hydrogen energy by 2030 and with a vision to 2050.

Decision No. 165/QD-TTg of the Prime Minister approved the strategy for the development of hydrogen energy in Vietnam. Accordingly, by 2030, the production capacity of hydrogen from renewable energy and other processes with carbon capture will reach about 100 – 500 thousand tons/year, increasing to 10 – 20 million tons by 2050. The goal is to contribute to the national commitment to net-zero emissions.

Development Perspective

The development of hydrogen energy must be based on ensuring continuity and consistency with national energy development strategies and plans, while being dynamic and open to adapt to the global energy transition context and situation.

Development along the Value Chain

Hydrogen energy will be developed along the value chain from production, storage, transportation, distribution to utilization, contributing to energy security and greenhouse gas emission reduction. This promotes the development of a green economy, a circular economy, and a hydrogen economy.

Reasonable Development Roadmap

The development of hydrogen energy will be linked to the energy transition roadmap in Vietnam, closely following global technological development trends, especially in the use of renewable energy to produce green hydrogen. Efficient, sustainable, and economical utilization of national resources will serve both domestic demand and export needs.

Encouragement of Usage across Economic Sectors

Hydrogen energy will be encouraged for use in all sectors of the economy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with appropriate preferential policies for high-emission sectors such as power generation, transportation, and industry.

International Cooperation

Vietnam will enhance international cooperation to share experiences and knowledge in developing the hydrogen energy ecosystem, effectively leveraging international community support.

General Objective

The aim is to develop a hydrogen energy ecosystem based on renewable energy, including production, storage, transportation, distribution, domestic use, and export with synchronized and modern infrastructure. This ensures energy security, meets national climate change targets, and promotes green growth.

Specific Tasks and Solutions

  1. Hydrogen Energy Production:
    • By 2030: Apply advanced technology in green hydrogen production and carbon capture/use (CCS/CCUS).
    • By 2050: Master advanced technology in green hydrogen production, achieving a production capacity from renewable energy processes and other processes with carbon capture of about 10 – 20 million tons/year.
  2. Hydrogen Energy Utilization:
    • By 2030: Develop the hydrogen energy market, and trial hydrogen-based energy in some sectors.
    • By 2050: Promote the application of green hydrogen energy and hydrogen-based fuels in all energy-consuming sectors.
  3. Policies and Legislation:
    • Develop and supplement regulations on renewable energy development policies in the amended Electricity Law.
    • Create mechanisms and legal frameworks for enterprises to transition to hydrogen energy production and use.
  4. Investment and Finance:
    • Research and invest in pilot projects for small-scale clean hydrogen energy production.
    • Diversify and effectively mobilize various sources of capital, both domestic and international, for hydrogen energy development.
  5. Science and Technology:
    • Update global technological advancements, enhance research, application, and transfer of hydrogen energy production technology.
    • Encourage enterprises to invest in research and development, and promote innovation in the hydrogen energy sector.
  6. Training and Human Resource Development:
    • Implement tasks and solutions in training, environmental protection, international cooperation, and communication to raise awareness about the benefits of the hydrogen economy.

Conclusion

Vietnam is gradually implementing a strategy to develop hydrogen energy, aiming for a sustainable and greener future, while contributing to the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

To discuss and cooperate in developing this technology, please contact us
BIG NANO TECHNOLOGY
Hotline: (+84) 879 808 080 – (+84) 868 939 595
Email: sales@bignanotech.com

Development Strategy for Hydrogen Energy and Hydrogen Vehicles in Vietnam

On February 22, 2024, in Hanoi, the Ministry of Industry and Trade organized a conference (in-person and online with other localities) to implement Vietnam’s Hydrogen Energy Development Strategy until 2030, with a vision to 2050 (Hydrogen Energy Strategy), which was approved by the Prime Minister in Decision No. 165/QD-TTg on February 7, 2024.

The strategy sets a general goal to develop a hydrogen energy ecosystem that includes production, storage, transportation, distribution, and use of hydrogen with synchronized, modern infrastructure, based on renewable energy, contributing to energy security, achieving the national goals on climate change, green growth, and net-zero emissions by 2050.

The strategy also aims to deploy advanced technology in the production of green hydrogen energy and other hydrogen energy production technologies using CCS/CCUS from various fuel sources in Vietnam by 2030. It is expected that the production capacity of hydrogen from renewable energy processes and other processes with carbon capture will reach about 100,000 – 500,000 tons per year by 2030.

Thus, if the goal of building infrastructure for the production, use, storage, transportation, and distribution of hydrogen energy becomes a reality, it would be entirely feasible for automobile manufacturers to introduce hydrogen-powered vehicles to Vietnam. This is because they would then benefit from government incentives and have the necessary conditions to operate. Fuel for hydrogen vehicles would also not be as expensive as it is now.

Keith Wipke, the program director for hydrogen and fuel cell technology testing at the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, predicts: “In just a few decades, hydrogen stations and hydrogen vehicles will have a bright future everywhere, not just in the United States.”

BIGNANOTECH is looking for partners to co-develop this highly potential field.

To discuss collaboration opportunities, please contact:
BIGNANOTECH Company
Hotline: (+84) 879 808 080 – (+84) 868 939 595
Email: sales@bignanotech.com

Using Green Energy to Enhance Competitive Advantage in Export

Advancements in science, technology, and environmental awareness are driving the global market towards the adoption of green energy. A rapidly developing country like Vietnam is also embracing this trend. In recent years, Vietnamese businesses have started researching and implementing green energy not only for environmental benefits but also for the competitive edge it offers in exports.

Green energy usage not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also brings many economic benefits. With renewable energy prices decreasing and investments in green technologies emphasized, transitioning to green energy is no longer a luxury but a smart business strategy for enterprises.

One of the significant advantages that green energy brings to Vietnamese businesses is increasing competitiveness in exports. The international market is gradually shifting towards environmentally friendly products and services, so companies using green energy will have a significant advantage over competitors who do not utilize clean energy sources. If manufacturing enterprises do not plan to reduce carbon emissions now, their export products will struggle to compete and maintain market position.

Furthermore, adopting green energy also helps Vietnamese businesses enhance their image and reputation in the international market. The ability to demonstrate commitment to environmental protection is not only essential for building cooperative relationships with international partners but also a deciding factor when enterprises participate in international trade agreements.

Vietnamese businesses also need to realize that using green energy not only enhances export competitiveness but also presents an opportunity to promote sustainable development in their manufacturing and business sectors. Investing in green energy is not just a strategic decision but also a demonstration of responsibility and commitment to the sustainable future of both the enterprise and society.

In the future, increasing the use of green energy will not only be a trend but also a necessary requirement for businesses that want to survive and thrive in the international market. With the right understanding of the economic and environmental benefits of green energy, Vietnamese enterprises will be able to seize opportunities and create better competitive advantages in the international market.

To explore opportunities for technology development cooperation, please contact:
BIG NANO TECHNOLOGY
Hotline: (+84) 879 808 080 – (+84) 868 939 595
Email: sales@bignanotech.com

Production of Green Hydrogen in Vietnam: Demand, Potential, and Challenges

Alongside renewable energy development solutions, the utilization of energy-saving, efficient, and low-carbon emission electricity sources such as green hydrogen and its derivatives has garnered significant global attention and high expectations. This is a crucial solution in the energy transition journey as well as for reducing emissions in various industrial sectors.

Green hydrogen is a clean fuel produced from water electrolysis technology and renewable energy, contributing to emission reduction goals and economic development. According to experts, green hydrogen is expected to be used in industries already utilizing gray or brown hydrogen fuels, including oil and gas, chemicals, steel production, and particularly in transportation.

While the production and use of green hydrogen are still emerging fields in Vietnam, this topic is increasingly attracting market attention.

1. Demand for hydrogen usage in Vietnam

In Vietnam, hydrogen is currently a feedstock for production in several industrial sectors, with the most significant usage in oil refining, chemicals, fertilizer production, and steelmaking. In 2020, according to assessments by the Institute of Petroleum Research, fertilizer production plants consumed about 316,000 tons of hydrogen, while the Dung Quat and Nghi Son oil refineries consumed 39,000 tons and 139,000 tons per year, respectively. Currently, many countries worldwide, such as Japan, South Korea, and China, have announced specific green hydrogen development strategies in the medium and long term as a solution to reduce emissions and mitigate global warming impacts.

According to research results from the Energy Institute (calculating green hydrogen demand), the demand for green hydrogen for developing various economic sectors in Vietnam is significant. However, the current production and application technology of green hydrogen are not yet perfected and have plenty of room for development. Therefore, the demand for green hydrogen will change depending on the development of production technology, storage infrastructure, usage, and distribution.

2. Potential for hydrogen development in Vietnam

Vietnam has early recognition of the profound impacts of climate change, leading to efforts through commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 at COP26 and continuously increasing solar and wind energy capacities. Additionally, it has announced fair energy transition partnerships worth $15.5 billion with an international partner alliance (JETP) and representatives from several other countries.

Industries related to hydrogen in Vietnam currently and with strong potential for future development include oil refining, fertilizer production, electricity generation, transportation, steel, cement, etc.

Clean hydrogen resources: wind power (onshore, offshore), solar energy.

The government and state have specific goals, roadmaps, and policies for hydrogen development, such as Resolution NQ-55/TW (2020), NDC (2020), Decision 876/QD-TTg (2022), Decision 888/QD-TTg (2022), Decision 896/QD-TTg (2022), Decision No. 28/QD-TTg (2022), Power Development Plan 8 (PDP8), NEP, etc.

3. Challenges in green hydrogen production

Although there is significant potential for development, achieving desired production levels quickly and replacing current fossil fuel sources is not an easy path.

Firstly, infrastructure: To achieve economic efficiency, Vietnam will need to build large-scale electrolysis plants and other infrastructure to serve the production, storage, distribution, and use of green hydrogen (logistics platforms, ports, vessels, pipelines, etc.).

Secondly, substantial investment, high costs: Production of hydrogen, in general, and green hydrogen, in particular, requires more energy than other fuel types, making it much more expensive. Analysts estimate that green hydrogen prices need to halve to compete with gasoline and diesel.

Thirdly, environmental risks related to residuals: Coastal countries operate based on desalination plants, but they pose many environmental risks related to residuals during production.

Fourthly, specific transportation requirements: According to IRENA, by 2050, 50% of green hydrogen transactions will be transported via pipelines, where part of it currently used to transport natural gas will need to be converted for functionality. At distances exceeding 3,000 km, green hydrogen can be transported in liquefied form, requiring much lower temperatures than natural gas (-250°C compared to -160°C) or in ammonia form.

Fifthly, safety assurance: This is also a concern because hydrogen is a volatile and flammable element. Therefore, stringent safety measures are necessary to prevent leaks and explosions.

Graphene Coating Technology for Automobiles

1. What is Graphene Coating Technology?

Graphene is a structure consisting of two-dimensional Carbon atoms bonded together in a honeycomb lattice, similar to diamond molecules. It is a soft, flexible, durable mineral with excellent heat resistance and becomes very hard when solidified. Additionally, Graphene is harder than diamond but more elastic than rubber; harder than steel and lighter than aluminum. Graphene is also considered one of the strongest heat and electricity conductors. Therefore, Graphene technology can be used to enhance the strength of other materials.

Graphene is also used as a coating material, paint, conductive ink, and more. In the automotive industry, the super-hard and anti-static properties of Graphene make it resistant to dust accumulation when applied to cars. Graphene coating technology enhances the durability and impact resistance of car surfaces. Thus, Graphene is an optimal product for protecting the paintwork of automobiles and is trusted and chosen by many users.

There are two common types of Graphene coatings for automobiles:

  • Graphene Spray Sealant
    This product is manufactured for quick car care. As it is a spray form, Graphene Sealant can be easily and quickly applied. The process of applying Graphene Sealant is simple; users only need to clean and prepare the surface by removing dirt and wax.
  • Graphene Coating
    Graphene Coating requires highly skilled technicians and the material cost is higher. To apply Graphene Coating, users need to follow precise procedures because incorrect application can affect the quality and aesthetics of the car.

2. Advantages of Graphene Coating Technology

Thick, high-durability coating
Using Graphene coating enhances the durability and hardness of the paint surface. After application, the glossy paint layer reaches a hardness of 10H (H is a measure of material hardness used in the Mohs hardness scale, ranging from 1H to 10H).

Most Graphene coatings on the market today have a durability of at least 5 years, with some lasting up to 7 years. The lifespan of Graphene spray sealants ranges from 6 months to 1 year depending on the brand and care.

Prevents and minimizes water spots
Graphene has excellent water and heat resistance. Due to its chemical composition and honeycomb structure, Graphene has a higher contact angle, making water slide off the surface more easily compared to conventional coatings, reducing the appearance of water spots from moisture, rainwater, dew, and evaporation on hot surfaces.

Excellent dust resistance
Graphene’s anti-static properties prevent dust and other small particles from adhering, preventing them from settling on the coated surface.

Enhanced gloss, high durability
Nano-sized Graphene particles leave a smooth, glossy layer that enhances the shine and appearance of the car. Therefore, Graphene-coated cars have an impressive and perfect appearance with an extremely shiny paint layer, standing out from other vehicles.

Corrosion resistance against rain, acid, mineral deposits, and environmental factors
Graphene coating technology has attracted much attention for its corrosion resistance with a thickness of a few nanometers. Therefore, Graphene coating can resist corrosion from acid rain, mineral deposits, environmental factors, etc., on the paint surface.

Although Graphene coating technology has many outstanding advantages compared to conventional ceramic coatings, it also has some drawbacks:

  • The cost of Graphene coating is relatively high.
  • Graphene Coating requires skilled technicians, machinery, and complete tools because curing occurs rapidly, and the material has high hardness, demanding precise and technically correct application.

Environmental conditions with a lot of dust and constantly changing weather make it difficult for users to maintain the glossy appearance of their cars over time. Therefore, Graphene coating technology is an optimal choice for users to comprehensively protect their vehicles. However, since Graphene coating technology is not yet widespread, users need to be cautious when choosing reputable maintenance centers and highly skilled technicians to ensure their cars are well-protected and cared for.

To discuss and cooperate in developing this technology, please contact us
BIG NANO TECHNOLOGY
Hotline: (+84) 879 808 080 – (+84) 868 939 595
Email: sales@bignanotech.com

Application of Graphene: Zagg Introduces a New Era of Protection for iPhone 15 Series

Zagg becomes the first accessory brand to incorporate Graphene material into the protective phone cases for the newly launched iPhone 15 series.

Zagg case made from Graphene material

Graphene, a material consisting of a single layer of tightly bound carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure, has successfully isolated by two scientists Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov, earning them the Nobel Prize in 2010, marking a significant milestone in material science.

As of now, Graphene possesses unique properties that no other material can match: it is super strong, rigid, elastic, and has excellent thermal conductivity, keeping devices cool and contributing significantly to extending battery life to make your phone more durable.

Zagg case collection from Graphene protective material

Ross McInnes, Director of Sales APAC, shared: “Graphene brings many benefits, aligning with Zagg’s global sustainability direction. Zagg’s founders always embrace innovation, constantly pushing boundaries, and are keen on adopting new technologies to deliver the best products to their customers.”

Peru Declares State of Emergency Due to Oil Spill

On January 22nd, Peru declared a state of environmental emergency along its coastal areas affected by an oil spill from a vessel owned by the energy conglomerate Repsol (Spain). The incident occurred as Repsol’s vessel was unloading cargo at the La Pampilla oil refinery and faced unusual large waves resulting from the volcanic eruption disaster in Tonga, approximately 10,000 km away.

Photo: REUTERS

The oil spill has contaminated 174 hectares of sea, beaches, and natural reserves in Peru. Despite cleanup efforts by authorities, the crude oil continues to spread, reaching up to 40 km from the initial location. The Peruvian government has demanded Repsol to compensate for the damages. Repsol attributes the oil spill to large Pacific Ocean waves caused by the Tonga volcanic event, claiming that the government did not issue any warnings. The company asserts that it has been working to address the incident.

Fishermen from the coastal district of Ventanilla, near Peru’s capital Lima, have gathered outside the La Pampilla refinery demanding compensation for their losses. La Pampilla is Peru’s largest oil refinery, holding over half of the country’s energy market share. The refinery has enclosed the affected areas, but the owner may face fines of up to $34.5 million. Environmental experts estimate that it may take up to two years to completely clean up the spilled oil.

Photo: Daily Sun
Photo: AFP
Photo: REUTERS

Meanwhile, the international community is actively providing relief aid to Tonga in response to the urgent appeal from the Pacific island nation, which recently experienced dual disasters of volcanic eruption and tsunami. New Zealand has announced an increased aid package for Tonga, totaling over $2 million, to provide essential supplies for the affected population and deploy volcanic ash cleanup tools.

The United Nations reports that Tonga has requested urgent assistance, and the organization is closely coordinating with Tongan authorities. The UN expresses particular concern about the safe water access for 50,000 people across Tonga. Additionally, approximately 60,000 individuals involved in agriculture, livestock farming, and fishing are affected by ash fallout, saltwater intrusion, and the risk of acid rain.