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.

Andrea Achilli

Andrea Achilli is an Associate Professor in the Chemical and Environmental Engineering Department at the University of Arizona (UA) and deputy director of the UA Water and Energy Sustainable Technology (WEST) Center. He is the Principal Investigator of the Water Resiliency program, funded by the US Army ERDC.

Abstract:

Theoretical basics

The lecture will introduce the concepts of concentration, osmotic pressure, Gibbs free energy, chemical activity, and work of separation. We will also introduce the concepts of solution/diffusion, permeation through dense membranes, and vapor transport across porous membranes.

Lab 1

Hands-on laboratory on membrane distillation. In this lab, students will perform a desalination experiment utilizing a bench-scale membrane distillation system. During the experiment they will set different temperatures and collect the volume of water permeated to calculate water flux. They will observe the relationship between temperature and water flux by plotting their values.

Lab 2

Hands-on laboratory on reverse osmosis. In this lab, students will perform a desalination experiment utilizing a bench-scale reverse osmosis system. During the experiment they will set different pressures and collect the volume of water permeated to calculate water flux. They will observe the relationship between pressure and water flux by plotting their values.

Lab 3

Visit to the sorption-based water treatment laboratory. Sorption-based water purification and desalination is an innovative approach to utilize waste or low-quality heat to induce phase change and recover distillate water from contaminated streams.

Group work

Results from the lab will be analyzed with the students. Students will then prepare and deliver a final presentation to highlight and summarize the laboratory work.

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.

Kerri Hickenbottom

Kerri Hickenbottom is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the University of Arizona. Her research takes a system-level approach to advance integrated engineered systems for treatment and recovery of nontraditional water and energy resources in decentralized settings.

Abstract:

As water-stressed regions around the globe continue to explore desalination and potable water reuse as a nontraditional means of securing and augmenting freshwater supply, the effective management of concentrate streams generated by these treatment trains is becoming a major concern. This presentation will discuss research on a an intensified solar-energy capture desalination system to realize self-sustained desalination and zero-waste discharge (ZWD) of concentrate streams in inland and off-grid applications. Experimental results and life-cycle costing are used to evaluate the technical, economic, and environmental impacts of this technology and inspire the advancement of a future generation of self-sustained treatment systems.

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.

Athanasios Chantzaroupolos

Athanasios Chantzaropoulos – Holds a BSc and MSc in Aquaculture from the University of Stirling. He has been working in commercial farms since 2004 at both fresh and sea–water, with a variety of species in flow-through systems or RAS. He works for AquaBioTech as an aquaculture consultant, technically coordinating the EU projects focusing on wastewater treatment, since 2022.

Abstract:

Wastewater quality in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

RAS provide a constant and controlled environment for aquatic organisms, allowing for optimal and fully manageable production.

AquaBioTech has developed efficient and cost-effective RAS for hatchery, broodstock, aquatic research and on-growing operations.

The discharge of these systems is a semi-solid by-product generated by the aquaculture activities containing faeces, uneaten feed, as well as a variety of dissolved compounds such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and other minerals. The management of the waste produced is a challenge, as the release of sludge into the environment represents an environmental concern. If this product is not managed properly, it can lead to eutrophication of natural waters and generation of greenhouse gases.

Michele Gallo

Michele Gallo – A marine biologist (M.Sc. in Marine Science, M.Sc. in Aquaculture ) with more than 4 years of experience as a researcher all around the world focusing on modelling RAS systems, with a deep knowledge on aquaculture biology and physiology. He is the Head of Aquatic Research Facilities Design at AquaBioTech Group, since 2018.

Abstract:

Wastewater quality in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

RAS provide a constant and controlled environment for aquatic organisms, allowing for optimal and fully manageable production.

AquaBioTech has developed efficient and cost-effective RAS for hatchery, broodstock, aquatic research and on-growing operations.

The discharge of these systems is a semi-solid by-product generated by the aquaculture activities containing faeces, uneaten feed, as well as a variety of dissolved compounds such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and other minerals. The management of the waste produced is a challenge, as the release of sludge into the environment represents an environmental concern. If this product is not managed properly, it can lead to eutrophication of natural waters and generation of greenhouse gases.

Lidia Roca Sobrino

Lidia Roca is an Electronic Engineer (2004) and a PhD with distinction (2009). She has been a researcher at CIEMAT since 2012, specializing in solar thermal processes, including modelling, optimisation and advanced control. She has contributed to more than 20 R&D projects, more than 60 journal publications, 2 books and numerous conference presentations.

Abstract:

This course provides a comprehensive overview of desalination technologies powered by renewable energies, with a special focus on solar energy. It covers the principles and applications of solar desalination systems, including thermal and photovoltaic-based processes. Participants will learn different solar thermal technologies and the importance of using appropriate instrumentation to perform a proper assessment. The course also covers fundamental concepts of control techniques commonly applied in these systems, as well as system modeling and optimization strategies. Emphasis is on improving efficiency, performance, and sustainability

Aamer Ali

Aamer Ali is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University, Denmark, specialized in membrane distillation for desalination, wastewater treatment, and resource recovery. He has over 44 peer-reviewed publications and is currently involved in four European projects, co-coordinating two. Aamer also serves as the Vice President of the European Membrane Society Council.

Abstract:

Energy-Efficient Module Design for Membrane Distillation.

Successful commercialization of membrane distillation is closely linked with reducing the specific thermal energy consumption of the process. One of the most promising solutions to this challenge is the development of more energy-efficient membrane modules. This lecture provides an overview of how the hollow fiber module dimensions, arrangements (series or parallel) and packing density affect its performance in terms of flux, specific thermal energy consumption and heat recovery potential. The effect of membrane properties, operative temperatures, flow velocities and feed concentration on the module performance will also be discussed.

Alberto Tiraferri

Alberto Tiraferri is Professor of Applied Environmental Engineering at Politecnico di Torino, Italy. Prof. Tiraferri received his Ph.D. from Yale University in 2012 in Chemical and Environmental Engineering. Subsequently, Prof. Tiraferri worked for two years as a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellow in the lab of Prof. Borkovec at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. His research interests include (i) membrane process engineering for water treatment and resource efficiency, (ii) decontamination and water purification using advanced oxidation, (iii) applications of innovative techniques for the reclamation of contaminated environment systems, (iv) contaminant dynamics in water.

Abstract:

Membrane-based desalination is a key technology for addressing global freshwater scarcity by efficiently removing salts and impurities from saline and wastewater streams. Advancements in membrane engineering and system design have enhanced efficiency and sustainability, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. This presentation will provide insights into desalination principles, membrane-based processes driven by different driving forces, membrane materials and properties, membrane and system configurations, as well as established and innovative membrane techniques. 

Fausto Gallucci 

Fausto Gallucci studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Calabria (UNICAL, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy) where he obtained his MSc (2001) and PhD (2006) degrees. He performed his PhD research on hydrogen production from methanol in membrane reactors. In 2007, after having held a position as a postdoctoral researcher at the Research Institute on Membrane Technology  (ITM-CNR, at the UNICAL campus), Gallucci moved to the research group Fundamentals of Chemical Reaction Engineering at the University of Twente (Enschede, The Netherlands). In 2009 he was appointed Assistant Professor (tenure track) there. The following year, Gallucci moved to the Chemical Process Intensification laboratory at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e, The Netherlands) where he was appointed Associate Professor in 2015, leading the Multiphase Reactors research effort. In 2018 he was appointed full Professor at the chair ‘Inorganic Membranes and Membrane Reactors’. He is chairman of the Sustainable Process Engineering group. Fausto has participated to more than 35 European project and coordinated several. 

Abstract:

Membranes are selective barriers separating two phases, regulating the transport of various chemical species between the two compartments. The EU-funded MEASURED project aims to develop advanced membrane materials for pervaporation (PV), membrane distillation (MD) and gas separation (GS), setting the basis for the commercialisation of greener technological pathways all along the value chain. The planned PV, MD and GS prototypes will reach TRL7, with operation times exceeding 20 000 hours. MEASURED will model the material properties across scales and conduct a full life cycle assessment analysis. It will also address societal implications to increase the acceptance and market readiness of the technologies. In this talk, we will present the different project lines and the latest development on membranes and membrane systems achieved so far in the project. 

Eugenio Vecchi

Eugenio Vecchi works as operation specialist in Tinexta Innovation Hub, where he has been developing an expertise in managing European projects in the framework of LIFE, HORIZON 2020 and HORIZON EUROPE funding programmes. He has a bachelor degree in Political sciences, Government and Administration (University of Padova) and a MA in European and Global studies (University of Padova).

Matteo Fasano 

Matteo Fasano is an Associate Professor and co-Director of the Multi-Scale Modelling Laboratory (SMaLL) at Politecnico di Torino. He earned his Ph.D. in Energy Engineering and Nanotechnology in 2015, receiving recognition from Politecnico di Torino and the ENI Award 2017.

With research experience at Houston Methodist Research Institute and MIT, he has collaborated with institutions like Imperial College and the University of Minnesota. Since 2014, he has authored over 90 publications, including in Nature Communications and Science Advances.

His work focuses on heat and mass transfer modeling for desalination, energy storage, and solar energy, using multiscale modeling and machine learning. He leads four European projects on sustainable technologies and collaborates with industries in automotive, space, and energy. At Politecnico di Torino, he teaches courses on energy materials, thermodynamics, and nanoscale modeling and is on the CleanWaterCenter board.