Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rice_hulls[/b]A number of rice-producing countries, (e.g. Thailand), are currently conducting research on industrial uses of rice hulls. Some of the current and potential applications are listed below.
ChemistryRice hulk can be used to produce mesoporous molecular sieves (e.g., MCM, which are applied as catalysts for various chemical reactions, as a support for drug delivery system and as adsorbent in waste water treatment.
Pet food fiberRice hulls are the outermost covering of the rice and come as organic rice hulls and natural rice hulls. Rice hulls are an inexpensive byproduct of human food processing, serving as a source of fiber that is considered a filler ingredient in cheap pet foods.
Building materialRice hulls are a class A insulating material because they are difficult to burn and less likely to allow moisture to propagate mold or fungi. It has been found out that when burned, rice hull produces significant amounts of silica. For these reasons it provides excellent thermal insulation.
Pillow stuffingRice hulls are used as pillow stuffing. The pillows are loosely stuffed and considered therapeutic as they retain the shape of the head.
FertilizerRice hulls are organic material and can be composted. However, their high lignin content can make this a slow process. Sometimes earthworms are used to accelerate the process. Using vermicomposting techniques, the hulls can be converted to fertilizer in about four months.
SiC productionRice hulls are a low-cost material from which silicon carbide "whiskers" can be manufactured. The SiC whiskers are then used to reinforce ceramic cutting tools, increasing their strength tenfold.
FuelWith proper techniques, rice hulls can be burned and used to power steam engines. Some rice mills originally dispose of the hulls in this way
[edit] Brewing
Rice hulls can be used in brewing beer to increase the lautering ability of a mash.
Juice extractionRice hulls are used as a "press aid" to improve extraction efficiency of apple pressing.[5]
[b]Rice husk ash
The ash produced after the husks have been burned, (abbreviated to RHA), is high in silica. A number of possible uses are being investigated for this. These uses include
* aggregates and fillers for concrete and board production
* economical substitute for microsilica / silica fumes
* absorbents for oils and chemicals
* soil ameliorants
* as a source of silicon
* as insulation powder in steel mills
* as repellents in the form of "vinegar-tar"
* as a release agent in the ceramics industry
* as an insulation material for homes and refrigerants
* IN Kerala, India- Rice husks (Umikari- in malayalam)was universally used for over centuries in cleaning teeth - before toothpaste replaced it
When I have money, I get rid of it quickly, lest it find a way into my heart.