Speakers

Alessandro Angelini

Alessandro Angelini is a research scientist at DeltaMem AG, Switzerland. He received his PhD from University of Basel in 2022 in Nanoscience. Since 2023, he has been working in the R&D department of DeltaMem, where he continues to innovate and improve the performance and sustainability of pervaporation membranes.

Abstract:

This presentation explores the development and implementation of pilot systems in membrane technology, focusing on pervaporation and membrane distillation. Topics include membrane fabrication at the lab scale, strategies for upscaling production, and the assembly and testing of modules at larger scales. The discussion will cover practical insights into scaling up membrane technologies and the critical considerations for successful pilot system implementations, providing a comprehensive overview of the journey from lab-based research to industrial-scale applications.

Joaquim Canadell

Joaquim Canadell is the CEO and main Biologist of Amapex Environment dedicated from 2007 to provide cost-efficient biotechnological Wastewater Treatment solutions to small and medium enterprises across Europe.

Abstract:

Wastewater quality: industrial case studies

• Purification of industrial wastewater as a product of the manufacture of fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides.
• Elimination of high load of organochlorine contaminants present in wastewater, especially Lindane (> 7900 ng / l).
• Reduce the cost of the conventional method € 150 / m3.

AMAPEX solution allows reducing the Lindane content of purified water, with a significant cost reduction compared to traditional wastewater treatment systems.

The solution is to treat the contaminated water by passing it through retention tanks, applying a solution that contains a mixture of bacteria and nutrients, specifically designed for each client.

The bacteria are “activated” efficiently, producing enzymes and metabolizing especially the organochlorine compounds present in wastewater.

• More than 95% reduction in Lindane.
• 70% cost savings compared to traditional industrial wastewater treatment systems.

This AMAPEX solution is specific for the treatment of wastewater in the chemical industry, which can also be successfully applied in the plastics, styrene industry and, in general, in all industries derived from the petrochemical sector with high production of effluent wastewater chlorinated.

Matteo Morciano 

Matteo Morciano is a researcher in the SMaLL lab at PoliTo. He carried out part of his research at MIT and Imperial College in London. In 2020, he was awarded by ENI as “Young Researcher of the Year” for developing innovative technologies for passive drinking water production using solar energy. 

Abstract:

“Thermal-based desalination: basic notions and implementations” The talk provides both theoretical and practical insights into thermal-based water desalination technologies. The fundamental thermodynamic and transport processes governing the production of fresh water from saline sources are covered, along with an overview of current and future desalination systems. The focus is on thermal desalination technologies, highlighting the technological, economic and environmental drivers that influence performance and accessibility. Modelling techniques for mass and heat transfer are also introduced. Finally, the principles of a frugal approach to the ‘water-energy nexus’ are discussed. 

Nikolaos Koufokotsios 

A seasoned sustainability and digital transformation leader with a proven track record in decarbonizing operations and securing EU funding. Expertise in implementing innovative solutions, including robot/drone deployment strategies, to enhance operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Adept at developing and executing comprehensive sustainability strategies while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. 

Abstract:

This presentation spotlights Athens Brewery’s innovative implementation of a containerized ultrafiltration (UF) system to produce high-quality water from second stage reverse osmosis (RO) brine. The recovered water is strategically repurposed within the brewery’s operations, aligning with sustainability and circular economy principles. 

Membrane technologies, such as UF, are emerging as sustainable solutions for water recovery, significantly reducing water footprint and safeguarding precious water resources. In the context of the MEloDIZER project, novel membrane designs (MDs) are being tested across various industries, including the beverage sector, with the goal of achieving 70-90% wastewater reuse. Furthermore, the project aims to extend membrane lifespan from 2 to 5 years, promoting circular economy principles. 

Our findings underscore the substantial benefits of UF in reducing both water and energy consumption in industrial processes. By showcasing Athens Brewery’s pioneering efforts, this presentation highlights the potential of UF to revolutionize water management within the brewing industry and beyond. 

Olga Chybová

Olga Chybová is the Envi-Affairs Specialist in INOTEX Ltd, Czech Republic, specialized in textile industry environmental issues (Health & Safety, RSLs, legislation, waste water, waste management, circular economy). Head of the Testing Laboratory for Textile Finishing (INOTEX Ltd.) and Safety Advisor for road transport of dangerous goods (ADR). She is experienced in work within international R&D projects. 

Abstract:

WASTEWATER QUALITY: INDUSTRIAL CASE STUDIES – TEXTILE INDUSTRY In textile industry, the discharged wastewater usually contains a mix of colorants, chemicals, salts, metals and other organic and inorganic compounds. The composition of these pollutants and their amount depends on the applied production technologies, material composition of the processed textile and its form (yarns, woven or knitted textile). 

Due to the high demand for the quality of water used in textile technologies, mostly fresh water is used. Reusability of the treated wastewater depends on quality characteristics required for specific production steps. The most important recycled wastewater quality indicators are color, concentration of organic compounds (COD, BOD), suspended solids, heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Mn), hardness (Ca, Mg), inorganic salts and from occupational health safety point of view also disinfection. 

The most important identified risks for membrane techniques in the case of textile wastewater treatment include load, plugging, biofilm growth and corrosion.