Projects - BioWAVE

Abstract

The overall objective of the project is the lab scale evaluation and optimization of biological activated carbon filtration (BAC) for PFAS removal from industrial effluents, with the aim of increasing the service life of the activated carbon filter via biological regeneration.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project is situated in the field of environmental biotechnology, more specifically the biological treatment of industrial wastewater. The conventional activated sludge process, CAS, is typically operated at long sludge retention times (= low-rate), and often yields a good quality effluent for discharge. CAS treatment however comes with a considerable (environmental) cost with limited resource recovery. In view of the much needed transition of conventional wastewater treatment systems to advanced water resource recovery facilities, this project develops the innovative concept of High-Rate Granular Sludge or HiGS. HiGS aims at various complementary resource recovery routes: 1) energy recovery via anaerobic digestion of the sludge operated at low sludge retention times (a few days), 2) nutrient recovery via the enhanced biological phosphorus removal process which is key to granulation, and 3) recovery of valuable gel-forming biopolymers that define the structure of the aerobic granules. The project specifically investigates the impact of key operational factors, such as the sludge retention time and the wastewater composition, on the resulting microbial community composition and the quantitative resource recovery potential of HiGS. In addition, the project determines the composition and properties of gel-forming biopolymers extracted from high rate granular sludge systems in view of future applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Microbial oil is a necessary alternative to fossil or vegetable oil in the future. However, large-scale production is not yet economically viable. Diluted lignocellulosic waste streams are a cheap and therefore interesting source of carbon for microbial oil production. The use of reversible immobilisation of an oleaginous yeast in a continuous reactor with collection of the cells in which the oil has accumulated still has many shortcomings. High cell concentration, high oil accumulation and efficient remobilisation are extremely important. This requires a complex interaction between the carrier material, the microorganism and the medium composition. Several highly innovative solutions are being investigated in this project. It will be evaluated whether the lignocellulose-derived inhibitors (furan aldehydes, organic acids and phenolics) in the substrate enhance the natural immobilisation of the yeast cells. To further increase the immobilisation efficiency, the application of co-immobilisation of yeast with mould as well as the use of zwitterionic polymers for simple reversible immobilisation will be investigated. Strain improvement, taking into account all the required characteristics of the microorganisms, will be carried out using adaptive laboratory evolution. These innovations should lead to an efficient system where the inhibitors from diluted lignocellulosic waste streams are valorised in the form of microbial oil.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Vanderveken Ines

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project is situated in the domain of environmental biotechnology. For over a century, the activated sludge process has been the most commonly used method of biological wastewater treatment. Despite a high efficiency in removing pollutants, its sustainability is now questioned. Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) is a recent innovation that allows for efficient wastewater treatment, while recovering resources and minimizing land footprint and energy consumption. However, an important issue that has poorly been recognized is the production of nitrous oxide (N2O) during nitrogen removal in AGS. N2O is a potent greenhouse gases with a global warming potential 300 times higher than carbon dioxide. The aim of the project is to develop a model to optimize N2O emission mitigation in AGS. The model will be extensively calibrated, validated and ultimately confirmed based on experimental data obtained from laboratory-scale AGS reactors performing integrated nitrogen and phosphorus removal. The project combines the complementary expertise of researchers of the Gda?sk University of Technology (Poland) and the University of Antwerp (Belgium). The project will identify key operational and microbial mechanisms of N2O production, and will result in experimentally confirmed model-based mitigation strategies to minimize and avoid N2O emission. The project results will thus significantly contribute to the sustainability of the innovative AGS process for wastewater treatment

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to demonstrate that ozonation (O3) in combination with Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) can be used at WWTPs as an innovative, effective and cost-efficient post-treatment technique to improve surface water quality in the Netherlands and Flanders. Ozonization is the efficient technique for the removal of a wide range of organic micropollutants (OMPs) but has the disadvantage that it can lead to the release of harmful by-products such as bromate and transformation products. A higher ozone dosage, which is required for far-reaching removal of OMPs, also leads to a greater risk of the formation of by-products in this process. With GAC filtration, these by-products are not formed, however, frequent regeneration of the activated carbon is necessary when using GAC, leading to high costs and a large carbon footprint. This project therefore investigates how these two technologies can be best integrated so that the highest possible OMP removal can be achieved with minimal by-product formation, minimal GAC regeneration and optimal energy and resource consumption.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: De Boeck Gudrun

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aerobic granular sludge process (AGS) is a revolutionary development in the field of biological wastewater treatment. The formation of dense and compact granules leads to a significant intensification of the process, with a lower footprint, decreasing energy consumption and reduced sludge formation. Currently, however, all granular sludge reactors are of the batch type, with discontinuous feeding. This greatly limits the market potential of the technology. This project, a collaboration between research groups from Flanders and Vietnam, aims to develop a continuously fed granular sludge process. The knowledge of the AGS process, at UAntwerpen, is translated to the continuous process "ICEAS" (intermittent cycle extended aeration system) in which the Vietnamese German University has built a strong expertise. Furthermore, at UAntwerp, we are investigating the dynamics of formation and removal of the strong greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) during simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal by granular sludge systems, in order to elaborate a N2O mitigation strategy. At the same time, the granular ICEAS concept will be optimized, in Vietnam, for the treatment of wastewater from the seafood processing industry, an important economic activity in Vietnam with a considerable ecological impact. The expected outcome of the project is an innovative and sustainable continuously fed granular sludge process, achieved through the cooperation of both partners.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of "FLAXIT" is to develop highly selective biocatalytic reactions for creating completely renewable molecules using flaxseed as the resource. For each ton of long flax fiber, 0.7 ton of flaxseed is produced in Belgium, which is considered a side stream, out of which 30-40% is oil and utilized mainly for low end technical applications. The other 60-70% is used as feed. With the intention of doubling the flax production to meet the growing fiber demand, flax growers in Belgium will produce higher volumes of flaxseed as by-product. In this project we will utilize the diverse biomolecules namely oil (consisting of polyunsaturated fatty acids), carbohydrates and proteins present in flaxseed to their best potential. With the help of extraction and biocatalytic transformations, we will create new value chains which open novel opportunities for farmers, industry, and society in Belgium. This project brings together a multidisciplinary team to use enzymatic- and microbial transformations to produce (i) methyl-, ethyl- and polyglycerol esters from flaxseed oil for personal care and cosmetic applications, (ii) long chain dicarboxylic acids from the flaxseed oil and carbohydrates for e.g. new polymers and cosmetic applications, and (iii) protein/peptides & water soluble dietary fibers from the defatted flaxseed cake for techno-functional applications in foods. In this way, we aim to obtain a zero-waste biorefinery for the valorization of flaxseed.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

More efficient, compact, and less energy consuming technologies for wastewater treatment are urgently needed to meet the ever stricter discharge norms and to overcome the overall shortage of water, which necessitates water reuse. By combining both membrane bioreactor (MBR) and aerobic granular sludge (AGS) technologies, the main disadvantages of the current conventional activated sludge system (CAS) (e.g. being energy and space intensive and less prone for a compact C/N/P removal or recovery) can be overcome. While the granules can potentially alleviate membrane fouling, the feast-famine conditions and/or other alledged granulation parameters are not straightforwardly transferred to a continuous system with complete sludge retention such as in an MBR. This research aims to achieve and maintain stable granulation of aerobic granular sludge and integrate it with membrane bioreactors in continuous-flow reactors (CFRs). Our central research hypothesis is that the main granulation mechanism, i.e. microbial selection, can be applied to continuous-flow systems. A stepwise approach from sequencing batch to continuous and from continuous to MBR operation, with simple and complex substrates will lead to a final validation with real industrial wastewater. Thorough microbial analysis will gain the required insights to boost the AGS-MBR process to be widely applied in full scale wastewater treatment plants.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Fellow: Li Zehao

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall scientific goal of WODCA is to create new, sustainable, affordable long-chain dicarboxylic acids (LCDA) from waste oil that are relevant for industrial applications such as high-performance polymers, lubricants, coatings, corrosion inhibitors, etc. For this purpose, new non-pathogenic micro-organisms are developed as biocatalysts in an optimised fermentation process based on used frying oil, followed by an innovative membrane-based purification to obtain high purity LCDAs suitable for various Flemish chemical companies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to develop innovative ways of producing advanced (bio)fuels from microalgae and lignocellulosic matrices for road or air transport and applicable on national territory. It focuses on the development of innovative and competitive technological production schemes in order to position Belgium as a differentiated strategic partner and player for the eco-efficient production of advanced alternative (bio)fuels of second and third generation. The project is a cooperation between ULiège, UGent, UCLouvain and UAntwerpen. Within this project, BioWAVE, UAntwerpen coordinates research on the biochemical conversion and fermentation of optimized and modified lignocellulosic matrices with the innovative goal to combine a unique pre-treatment approach with a unique detoxification process for the one-step production of second-generation bioethanol. Bioethanol will be produced from lignocellulose, such as poplar wood and maize straw, wild type and genetically modified with a lower lignin content as provided by UGent. This process is a multi-step approach involving unitary operations of pretreatment, hydrolysis (often enzymatic), fermentation and rectification/distillation to produce bioethanol that would be suitable for integration into transportation fuels. An option favoured in this ADV_BIO project is steam explosion. Although attractive at first glance because it uses only water and no chemical agents, steam explosion generates "toxic" compounds that inhibit the subsequent saccharification process and may also inhibit bioethanol fermentation, thus reducing production yields. The main inhibitors are furan compounds (2-furfural or 5-hydroxymethylfurfural), weak organic acids, but also phenolic compounds that come from the degradation of lignin. The latter are considered to be the most problematic and must be eliminated from the reaction media. A research action is aiming at preventing lignin from hindering the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass by, first of all, the application of plants, with a lower lignin content. In the steam explosion, the lignin bonds are broken and phenolic degradation products are released into the liquid. It has been proven that repolymerisation into lignin can occur after a very severe pre-treatment, with newly formed bonds that are more difficult to break down. The addition of renewable additives during the steam explosion process will be investigated to prevent this unwanted repolymerisation. Removal of the remaining phenolic compounds, and possibly other inhibiting compounds, can be achieved by using biological detoxification as an integrated or additional step. Laccase detoxification of lignocellulosic matrices treated by steam explosion has been shown to increase the sugar yield during enzymatic hydrolysis. During this detoxification process, furan compounds and organic acids are also eliminated. In this research part improved lignocellulose biomass (UGent) will be applied in a relevant industrial process for bioethanol production, using steam explosion and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation. In addition, innovative technologies, i.e. supplementation during steam explosion to improve depolymerisation, and laccase as well as microbial detoxification, are applied to increase overall conversion.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

PFAS, poly- or perfluoroalkyl substances, includes thousands of different man-made fluorinated compounds with all kinds of applications, in fire-fighting foams, textiles, building materials, coatings, etc. However, PFAS are also "forever chemicals": persistent, mobile and barely biodegradable. PFAS occur in groundwater and surface water, and a major source of pollution is industrial wastewater. The current technology for removing PFAS from wastewater is activated carbon filtration, where PFAS bind to activated carbon via sorption. In this process no degradation occurs, and the long term efficiency is strongly dependent on the properties of PFAS (e.g. chain length, functional groups...). In the project we want to evaluate and optimize (combinations of) different existing techniques for the removal of PFAS from industrial wastewater, including the cost/benefit analysis and scalability. In addition, we want to gain insight in the behavior of PFAS in industrial (biological) wastewater treatment plants, more specifically how the operation of the biology influences PFAS removal by binding to the activated sludge. The proposed technologies include (electro-) coagulation techniques, various (advanced) chemical oxidation techniques (AOP), electrochemical oxidation (EO), and membrane filtration. We investigate not only the applicability to the effluent, but also to the concentrate stream after membrane filtration in a water reuse scenario.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In LIPTYDA we will create sustainable long-chain dicarboxylic acids (LCDAs) that are of great interest to several Flemish companies as they target different applications like high-grade polymers, plasticizers and lubricants. Current dicarboxylic acid production largely relies on fossil-based inputs and chemical processes, and is moreover limited to medium-chain products. In LIPTYDA we will focus on the novel long-chain dicarboxylic acids starting from grease trap waste (GTW); abundantly available in the food processing industry where it is collected during water treatment. GTW re-use is marginal as it is contaminated with food solids, and it is consequently mainly incinerated or deposited at landfills. Nevertheless, we see huge potential for GTW in biological fermentation processes: various LCDA producing yeast species thrive on lipids. First, we will thoroughly characterize the GTW and based on the outcome develop a suitable pretreatment. Next, we will apply advanced screening and synthetic biology approaches to obtain a yeast strain able to grow at high temperatures. Indeed, this is required to have GTW in the liquid state and guaranty good conversion to LCDAs. Finally, as we work with unusual temperatures and novel strains and feedstock, we will develop a new fermentation process using advanced reactor and cultivation technology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The BioPOM project aims at the application of Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal (EBPR) from potato processing industrial wastewater. The EBPR process not only reduces the amount of chemicals needed for phosphorus removal, but also significantly lowers the salinity of the treated water, thus allowing reuse of the treated effluent for irrigation purposes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The service platform BioGRAN is situated in the domain of environmental biotechnology, i.e. the biological treatment of industrial wastewater. BioGRAN aims at assisting companies, that treat their own wastewater, in the implementation of the revolutionary aerobic granular sludge technology, leading to significant economic and sustainability advantages. In a first phase, BioGRAN determines the feasibility of granulation with the specific wastewater from a client company. The translation of the key granulation parameters to practical implementation subsequently happens in collaboration with an external partner, the water consultant Cre@Aqua. In this phase, BioGRAN is involved in monitoring of the biological treatment plant during, and after, the implementation of the granular sludge technology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The BioWAVE research group is part of the LED-water network: academics giving first line of advice for companies, in all water-related areas. BioWAVE is the point of contact for companies in the province of Antwerp.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we investigate the impact of the aerobic granular sludge (AGS) technology on the membrane filtration characteristics in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating industrial wastewater, on full scale.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

BR 2.0 - Optimization of industrial biological wastewater treatment. About one-third of the industrial biological wastewater treatment plants suffer from poor sludge quality, often due to excessive growth of filamentous bacteria. This results in problematic settling, poor sludge dewatering, difficult sludge/water separation and even sludge washout in the effluent. The project aims to apply an innovative strategy to improve the structure, and thus the settling properties, of industrial activated sludge. This is done by acting on the plant's process operation to stimulate favorable groups of bacteria in the sludge, leading to compact sludge flocs. This strategy thus acts on the cause of poor settling! This innovative strategy was applied on a lab scale to improve the quality of activated sludge originating from different companies from various industries. The lab tests were conducted with sludge (1) from the food sector without nutrient removal, (2) from the food sector with nutrient removal, and (3) from the tank cleaning sector with complex wastewaters. The strategy was also applied at full scale in an industrial activated sludge plant. Here the operational strategy was optimized to obtain good and stable sludge quality. In all cases, good sludge quality was obtained, manifested by good sludge sedimentation (SVI < 100 ml/g), good effluent quality, and compact sludge morphology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The BioWAVE research group is part of the LED-water network: academics giving first line of advice for companies, in all water-related areas. BioWAVE is the point of contact for companies in the province of Antwerp.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Diluted phenol-rich streams occur regularly in lignocellulose-based biorefineries. Today, phenols are often regarded as waste. Some microorganisms can convert phenols into valuable intracellular components by fermentation. This makes the troublesome waste stream a raw material and an economic opportunity. To efficiently concentrate these dilute phenolic streams by conversion to intracellular components, it is necessary to speed up the process. In practice this often happens by increasing the amount of microorganisms, the biocatalyst, and consequently creating high cell concentrations. There is no efficient economic process for integrated fermentation and recovery of intracellular products. Our hypothesis is that the design of a new reactor type, namely a reversible immobilized cell reactor (RIR), offers a possible solution. In this reactor successively adhesion of the cells on a suitable support, fermentation, and finally desorption, to recover the intracellular components occurs. As a case study, the production of microbial oil is investigated starting from the phenolic hydrolysate obtained during the thermochemical treatment of lignocellulose. The aim of this project is to design an economically feasible process for valorising this phenolic flow. The new process will contribute to obtaining a biomass based circular economy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Broos Waut

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main aim of this proof of concept project is the development of an dynamic algorithm which makes use of simple and reliable sensor signals in order to monitor the anaerobic storage reaction. The motivation of this monitoring tool is to achieve well settling activated sludge (SVI < 100 mL/g) for the biological treatment of industrial wastewater.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Dobbeleers Thomas

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) is a revolutionary biological wastewater treatment system, with significant advantages in comparison to conventional activated sludge. A very interesting feature of AGS is the potential for simultaneous biological nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) removal from wastewater. This reaction relies on the specific storage metabolism of denitrifying polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (dPAO). Biological N-removal is however also linked to the formation of the potent greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O). Specifically in AGS, unbalanced denitrification may lead to accumulation of the intermediate N2O, due to the slow consumption of storage polymers by dPAO. The most intensively studied (d)PAO in AGS are Accumulibacter species, but these bacteria have a substrate range limited to the volatile fatty acids (VFA) acetate and propionate. Other putative dPAO using broader substrate ranges have been identified in (conventional) biological wastewater treatment systems, but their role in granulation and N2O formation/reduction dynamics remains unexplored. The main objectives of the current proposal are to investigate (1) the formation of AGS, and (2) the dynamics of P-removal coupled to denitrification and N2O formation/reduction in AGS, in well-defined enrichments of putative dPAO, by applying single and mixed carbon substrates (i.e. VFA, amino acids, glucose). The long-term enrichments are supported by (1) short-term batch experiments to investigate microbial activities, (2) microbial analyses (using quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing analysis) to monitor the taxonomic composition of the enriched microbial communities, and (3) analyses of gene expression of the key denitrification genes. The knowledge gained will (1) increase our insight in the complex reactions in granular systems, offering opportunities (2) to optimize nutrient cycling in AGS reactors, and (3) to define much-needed strategies to limit and mitigate N2O emissions from these innovative wastewater treatment plants

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Fellow: Dockx Lennert

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research group BioGEM acts as the contact point for companies located in the province of Anwerp, for all types of water-related issues. The project involves (1) free advice, (2) small scale tests, (3) formulation of theses, and (4) initiation of larger projects.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This projected is situated in the field of biological wastewater treatment and more specifically deals with the activated sludge (AS) process. Filamentous bulking due to the overgrowth of filamentous organisms has been generally reported as one of the most significant downsides of the AS process. In order to provide solutions for (waste)water practitioners, it is crucial to determine the type of these filamentous organisms and link their dominance to external factors. In this project we aim to use next generation sequencing (16s rRNA amplicon sequencing) to analyze the microbial community and more specifically the presence of filamentous organisms of 30 industrial wastewater treatment plants, relevant for the region of Flanders. Subsequently we aim to link the obtained microbial data to external factors such as wastewater, biomass characteristics and the operational parameters of the treatment plant.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dobbeleers Thomas
• Co-promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Polyurethanes (PU) are versatile group of polymers, being used increasingly in diverse applications; for instance in mattresses, building foams, automotive and adhesives. PU is a cross-linked polycondensation polymer, in which polyols (polyhydroxyl alcohols) react with highly reactive diisocyanates. As a thermoset (they do not have a melting point), PU is difficult to recycle, and the current state-of-the-art mechanical recycling results in low-value materials. Nonetheless, chemolysis (chemical depolymerization) has been explored since decades as an alternative, yet was only commercially developed for polyol recovery. The absence of a working technology for recovery of diisocyanate derivatives is largely due to the complexity of these molecules, and a lack of knowledge regarding their chemical fate in a chemolysis process. The proposed STIMPRO aims at understanding how various isocyanate derivatives are formed, and how they react upon alcoholysis, by experiments using model monomers. This knowledge, together with experimental and computational insights in mixing/solubility, will be exploited to create a bottom-up chemolysis process for model polyurethanes. The outcome of the proposed study will be used in subsequent chemolysis of realistic waste polyurethanes, with recovery of both monomers as significant technological novelty. Additionally, the resulting knowledge may be transferred in the future formulation of new polyurethanes with biobased alternative monomers

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Pazdur Lukasz
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Vande Velde Christophe

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During the thermochemical pretreatment biotechnological production of chemicals from the polysaccharides in lignocellulose, a solid fraction is obtained, consisting mainly of cellulose, and a lignin waste stream, the so-called, xylose rich fraction (XRF). XRF contains some residual sugar, toxic lignin-derived phenolic and sugar-derived furans. The goal of the research project is to investigate a technique to obtain almost complete removal of the lignin waste stream by using lipid producing bacteria, i.e., Rhodococcus sp. Rhodococcus is known to be able to metabolise phenol compounds. However to succeed, some hurdles have to be taken. (i) The furans and some phenolics can be toxic to the microorganism, (ii) repolymerisation of the lignin can occur (iii) the lignin is probably not completely converted, (iv) oligomers of lignin and lignin cellulose complexes can still be present, (v) it is not known if the Rhodococcus can degrade these oligomers. By analysis of the sugars, furans, phenolics, and the nature of the oligomers or particles, insight can be gained. Based on this knowledge, a toolbox of techniques to solve this will be applied, i.e. adaptation of the microorganism, commercial cellulases and laccases, alfa-naphtol to prevent repolymerisation of the lignin, using other bacteria, ….

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The P2PC project aspires to cope with the urgent issue of plastics waste management. The project targets the challenge of increasing plastic waste volumes and diversity on the one hand, as well as the establishment of circular material schemes instead of value destruction. The most important premise of P2PC is that by pyrolysis, plastic waste that is currently being burned or landfilled can be a source of diverse chemical building blocks, the so-called "precious chemicals". Its target, in other words, is to turn plastic waste into value. This way, P2PC can be considered as the next step in Flanders' efforts to lead the global effort in tackling the challenge of waste plastics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Industrial wastewater may contain non-biodegradable organics (recalcitrant COD). In the project, we investigate smart combinations of chemical and biochemical technologies to treat such wastewaters. The project focuses on wastewater from recycling processes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During the thermochemical pretreatment biotechnological production of chemicals from the polysaccharides in lignocellulose, a solid fraction is obtained, consisting mainly of cellulose, and a lignin waste stream, the so-called, xylose rich fraction (XRF). XRF contains some residual sugar, toxic lignin-derived phenolic and sugar-derived furans. The goal of the research project is to investigate a technique to obtain almost complete removal of the lignin waste stream by using lipid producing bacteria, i.e., Rhodococcus sp. Rhodococcus is known to be able to metabolise phenol compounds. However to succeed, some hurdles have to be taken. (i) The furans and some phenolics can be toxic to the microorganism, (ii) repolymerisation of the lignin can occur (iii) the lignin is probably not completely converted, (iv) oligomers of lignin and lignin cellulose complexes can still be present, (v) it is not known if the Rhodococcus can degrade these oligomers. By analysis of the sugars, furans, phenolics, and the nature of the oligomers or particles, insight can be gained. Based on this knowledge, a toolbox of techniques to solve this will be applied, i.e. adaptation of the microorganism, commercial cellulases and laccases, alpha-naphtol to prevent repolymerisation of the lignin, using other bacteria, …. The present project focuses on the first part of this research, namely characterizing the xylose-containing waste stream and investigating the toxicity of the individual components for Rhodococcus.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project AEROGRAM aims at implementing an innovative wastetwater treatment technology in industry, consisting of the integration of the aerobic granular sludge technology (AGS) in a membrane bioreactor (MBR). The granular MBR (GMBR) thus combines the advantages of granular sludge (small footprint, dense sludge, simultaneous nutrient removal) and MBR (excellent effluent quality, water reuse).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research group BioGEM acts as the contact point for companies located in the province of Anwerp, for all types of water-related issues. The project involves (1) free advice, (2) small scale tests, (3) formulation of theses, and (4) initiation of larger projects.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) represents a true revolution in the field of biological wastewater treatment with significant advantages in comparison to conventional activated sludge, such as low energy use, small footprint, process efficiency, recovery of biopolymers & phosphorus...). The granulation process relies on the specific metabolism of carbon-storing bacteria, such as polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAO). The most intensively studied PAOs in AGS are Accumulibacter species, but these bacteria have a very narrow substrate range (i.c. the volatile fatty acids VFA acetate and propionate). Other abundant putative PAOs using broader substrate ranges have been identified in (conventional) biological wastewater treatment systems, but their role in granulation and biopolymer formation remains unexplored. The main objective of the current proposal is to investigate (1) the formation of AGS, and (2) the production of the valuable gel-forming alginate-like extracellular polysaccharides (ALE), in well-defined enrichments of putative PAOs, other than Accumulibacter, by applying carbon substrates other than the VFAs acetate and propionate. Advanced microbial analyses, i.e. quantitative PCR (qPCR) and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing analysis, will be used to monitor taxonomic composition of the microbial community in the sludge during the enrichments. The results of the project will have a significant impact on the development of the aerobic granular sludge technology. The results will help define the application potential of the technology, by pointing out the type of wastewaters that can be treated. Increased knowledge of the key PAOs involved in granulation is also very useful in view of the optimization of the treatment process as it allows tuning the reactor operation in favor of the desired PAO.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: D'aes Jolien
• Fellow: Dockx Lennert

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This proposal aims at demonstrating the suitability and elucidating the effect of new green solvent media, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), on enzymatic reactions. NADES are eutectic mixtures of two or more biological primary metabolites (saccharides, amino and other organic acids, polyols, urea, choline) that are liquid at or slightly above room temperature, due to networking hydrogen bond interactions. Although they have been investigated earlier as green extraction media, reports on their use for enzymatic reactions are limited. For the first time, we will investigate their influence on enzymatic reactions by disaggregating the following effects: solvation energy, mass transfer in bulk and enzyme-substrate-intermediates stability. A well-known enzymatic conversion, i.e. deacetylation of a crude mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL) mixture aided by Novozym 435 (a commercial lipase), will be performed in selected NADES as a case example. Although no multi-parametric regression modeling will be done, qualitative (and semi-quantitative) insights will be gathered through coupling parametric solubility modeling (Hansen model, with experimental validation and input) with physicochemical characterization (viscosity, surface tension) of NADES systems, and concentration (substrate, enzyme) and temperature dependent kinetic experiments and modeling. The anticipated outcome of the project is a clear indication of enzymatic performance in fit for purpose NADES, and a breakdown of marginal efficiency change into solvation, activity and mass transfer differences with respect to traditional organic solvent systems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project involves the set-up of a fully automated labscale biological wastewater treatment unit and respirometer unit for the professional bachelor program in chemistry/biochemistry at the KdG University College.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The MATTER-project, a two-year Catalisti-ICON project (2018-2019), wants to evaluate the recycling of mixed (post-consumer) plastic waste streams and to use the generated data to develop a decision supporting framework. Within the MATTER-project, technical and market-based criteria will be developed to support an optimal plastic waste management system. More specifically, the project will focus on the P+ fraction (all plastics packaging waste) of the extended P+MD collection and recycling scheme. Partners from across the whole value chain are included in the project consortium: separation and pretreatment (Indaver and Bulk.ID), mechanical recycling (Borealis and ECO-oh!) and thermochemical recycling (Indaver and Borealis). Sustainability analyses will enable the development of a decision-supporting framework.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main aim of this innovation mandate is to develop a compact and sustainable granular sludge system allowing the treatment of a continuous flow of variable industrial wastewater. First, a dynamic process control strategy will be developed at lab-scale. Afterwards, this technology/strategy will be examined at pilot-scale, at the location of a potential industrial user. A successful project may lead to the commercialization of an energy-efficient, compact and flexible technology for the treatment of industrial wastewater

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Fellow: Dobbeleers Thomas

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This proposal aims at confirming/contradicting recently discovered (Bombelli et al., Current Biology 2017) accelerated biochemical conversion of low density polyethylene (LDPE) by larvae of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella, and investigate the nature and yield of metabolites. Strong concerns about the validity of these findings were published immediately thereafter (Weber et al., Current Biology 2017). The proposed research will employ an improved analytical setup, using blank and sterile samples, while analyzing composite homogenate/LDPE samples, and additionally will focus on a mechanistic understanding of the conversion process. In case of a positive result, this research will initiate further efforts to establish new biochemical recycling processes for polyolefins, in a time at which mechanical recycling is faced with its limitations. Yet, in case of disproval of state-of-the-art literature, the proposed research allows to join a running scientific discussion, and will generate knowledge and expertise on biochemical polyolefin degradation, or alkane functionalization in a broader perspective.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ImPrOVE (Innovative (pre)POmace Valorization procEss) project addresses a major European wide agro-related problem: pomace resulting from pressing fruit. This high amount of pomace is considered waste, but contains natural and highly functional compounds. Skin and core of fruit contain protecting and functional molecules: antioxidants, stabilizers, colorants, aromas, fibers with potential in high value applications in cosmetics, diets and, as bio-additives in food and beverages. ImPrOVE aims to fully valorize pomace by using a combination of existing and innovative processes. These should be easy without high energy/cost demands, resulting in access for S(M)E's (economic strategic European targets) with profit redistributed over the whole chain, strengthening Europe's agro and food activities. ImPrOVE will design a generic process flow applicable to most pomace types. Two cases will be studied: Southern European olive pomace and Mid/Northern European apple/pear/cherry/cucumber pomace. Total valorization is achieved in three process clusters: (1) pretreatment of the pomace giving raise to aromas and oil from separated seeds; (2) extraction of high value materials from the pretreated pomace and (3) valorization of the resulting fibrous mass, either directly (functionally designed fibers) or by splitting cellulose-lignin and valorizing both materials physically, enzymatically and/or chemically. An ambitious concept is to use bio-based ionic liquids (BIOILs) or natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) as extraction liquids advanced green solvents. More ambitious, highly appealing, is to study whether the extraction solution itself can be utilized instead of the isolated and purified ingredients, avoiding some downstream processing. Dermatological and metabolomic tests, (eco)toxicity, biodegradation, LCA, industrial relevance, scalability and economic viability will be sustainably addressed by the European multidisciplinary partner cluster, with academic and industrial members.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The proposed research aims at developing (new) affordable, valuable long chain α,ω bifunctional monomers for condensation reactions, sustainably produced, and provide demonstration samples, in view of filing a patent application with parallel industrial valorization. The envisioned monomers will yield new materials, polymers in particular, with unprecedented physicochemical, thermal and mechanical properties compared to existing short (max. C10 chains) α,ω bifunctional condensation monomers. Moreover, the newly developed materials are expected to be biodegradable, and offer opportunities for chemical recycling. To date, monomers comparable to our envisioned monomers can only be produced at low carbon efficiencies and high economic and environmental cost. In contrast, we propose a new synthesis route, complying to green chemistry principles, yielding long (C18+) α,ω bifunctional monomers, as well as their asymmetric versions, and a synthesis route for chain length extension and even doubling. The latter two processes were thus far (industrially) neither known nor feasible. Monomers with such long or doubled chain length were unprecedented to date. The feasibility of our proposed synthesis route has already been demonstrated by preliminary experiments. The performance of such new C18 polyester structures will be benchmarked against that of traditional (short chain) alternatives. A second phase focuses on longer (C18+) chains. In the latter case an ether molecule from two fatty chains, terminated on both sides, will be obtained. The total length of the chain between two functional groups is intended to be long, meaning at least 18 atoms. We hypothesize that the presence of the ether-oxygen internally does not fundamentally alter the chain structure, resulting in similar properties as an equivalent homogeneous carbon chain. The properties of the associated newly obtained oligomers and polymers will be assessed, and the data obtained will serve as examples for a patent application. In a third phase the production process will be optimized (e.g. with respect to cost structure) for a selection of monomers, i.e. those with the highest industrial demand. These monomers will be produced and supplied in larger quantities as demonstration samples, in light of prompting industrial valorization. First cost estimates will be made.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) are fatty acids with a chain length of more than 20 carbons. They represent a valuable class of chemicals which can be used in several industries. Nowadays, these are produced from vegetable oils and petrochemical feedstock. In order to make the VLCFA production more sustainable, microbial VLCFA synthesis by Rhodococcus species seems to be a perfect tool. Unfortunately, current knowledge on VLCFA production with Rhodococcus is limited. Therefore, this project proposes to fill this gap. For investigation of the triggering effects to achieve high VLCFA production different agro-industrial substrates will be used as raw material. The triggering effect of the compounds on gene expression of the VLCFA pathway will be evaluated by RT-qPCR. The desired triggers should increase the VLCFA titer. Different Rhodococcus strains will be examined and evaluated for VLCFA synthesis. VLCFA production will be further optimized by screening of several medium compositions, optimization of environmental factors and, finally, the feeding pattern. Establishment of high VLCFA productivities can lead to a new production process of valuable building blocks for chemical industry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Wijnants Marc
• Fellow: Van Herck Jolien

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project involves the set-up of a fully automated labscale biological wastewater treatment unit for the professional bachelor program in chemistry/biochemistry at the Karel de Grote (KdG) University College.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Tank truck cleaning (TTC) operations generate a highly complex wastewater. Even after treatment, TTC wastewater may still exhibit a high ecotoxic impact. In this project, we investigate different combinations of chemical and biological oxidation methods to remove residual ecotoxicity from TTC wastewater.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) is an innovative development in biological wastewater treatment. However, AGS systems are very complex, and to be able to further exploit the potential of AGS, more insight is needed into the different factors governing their formation, maintenance, and composition. The goal of this project is to gain more insight into the properties and composition of aerobic granules, and into the mechanism of their formation. To this end, we will explore the feasibility of obtaining aerobic granular biofilms with a pure microbial culture of Pseudomonas sp. CMR12a or with a mixed microbial culture, starting from a pure-culture inoculum.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: D'aes Jolien
• Co-promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Lebeer Sarah

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an important greenhouse gas, having a 300-fold stronger effect than carbon dioxide. N2O emissions are associated with nitrogen-removal processes in biological wastewater treatment, and contribute significantly to the total carbon footprint of a treatment plant. Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) is an innovative biological treatment technology leading to significant energy savings in the water treatment process. Knowledge on N2O emissions from these innovative AGS systems is however missing. The objective of the project is therefore the quantification of N2O formation in well-defined AGS systems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Pretreatment of lignocellulose biomass is necessary to degrade the lignin, decrease the cellulose crystallinity and increase the surface area for the subsequent required enzymatic hydrolysis. Fungal pretreatment is based on solid state cultivation where the fungal mycelia penetrate and attack the solid substrate through direct contact by releasing ligninolytic enzymes. In this project the mechanisms and optimal conditions of this complex process are investigated to enable a decrease in pretreatment time by using a stable consortium of collaborating microorganisms. Separate fungal strains are growing on polar wood chips in a computer controlled solid state fermenter. The process is followed up by measuring the deligninolytic enzyme activities, cellulase activities, carbohydrate concentrations in order to evaluate the capabilities of each strain. Also the growth rate will be determined by measuring the oxygen uptake rate of the solid state culture. All acquired information will be important to select the right strains that will enable a microbial consortium where a synergetic cooperation with high lignin removal will be obtained. This final pretreatment efficiency will be evaluated on ethanol productivity in a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation process of the pretreated poplar wood.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The activated sludge process for biological water treatment is widely used but in many aspects still poorly understood. New developments in this field are aerobic granular sludge processes and resource recovery from wastewater. The production of alginate-like biopolymers (ALE) fits well within these emerging technologies/topics. However, to fully take advantage of the possibilities of AS systems, more insight is needed in the composition and dynamics of the microbial community governing the process. A increasingly popular molecular technique to study AS systems is 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, which allows to obtain a full phylogenetic overview of the microbial community in the sludge. However, a link between phylogenetic data and functional information ('which organism does what?') is still largely missing. The specific objectives of this project are two-fold: - explore the potential of an alternative approach, namely amplicon sequencing of functional genes, and compare this approach to the results obtained with 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and by qPCR analysis - apply this strategy to investigate abundance and diversity of ALE biosynthesis genes in AS systems

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: D'aes Jolien

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) represents a revolutionary new biological treatment system based on the formation of very dense microbial aggregates. The current research proposal aims at developing an applicable dynamic control strategy for industrial AGS reactors, based on the signals of common, low-cost and robust sensors. A five step approach will be followed to reach this objective, starting from the development of a control strategy for "simple" well-defined AGS systems on laboratory scale to pilot-scale evaluation of an optimized control algorithm with real variable industrial wastewater.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Copot Cosmin

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The TNAV project aims at promoting the integration online sensors in the operation of industrial wastewater treatment plants. The implementation of online sensors significantly reduces the energy demand of the installation, and the use of chemicals.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A functional prototype of an algae harvester will be built and tested in real life conditions. The first target is to optimize the actual concept (dimensions, layout, choice of materials and physical parameters). The second target is to study in detail the operational window and the global costs (hardware and operational cost) and compare them with actual algae harvesters.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs) are one of the most promising biosurfactants (BS) because of their many potential applications. Despite all the advantages, BS and MELs in particular, are merely fermented on a limited scale. The main reasons for this are: (1) a limitation in structural variation of naturally occurring BS and (2) the cost, which is often not competitive with that of the chemically synthesized surfactants. The high cost is to a large extent determined by the cost of the feedstock. MELs are currently produced from soybean oil, a valuable substrate that increases the load on fertile land use. A possible alternative to vegetable oil could be oil from oleaginous yeasts. For several of these yeasts it has been shown that they are able to produce oil from volatile fatty acids, a very inexpensive substrate which can be obtained through acidogenesis of wastewater, an abundant waste stream. The objective of this project can be comprised in the research components below, each responding to a limiting factor of MEL-production: - Cost of the substrate: The development and optimization of a multi-stage production system where MELs are produced from oil fermented by the oleaginous yeast Cryptococcus curvatus. For the production of oil by C. curvatus, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and / or glycerol will be used as feedstock. Finally, we designed a case study to obtain VFA from industrial wastewater. - Limited structural variation: In order to obtain a structural variety of MEL-derivatives, alternative feeding of fatty acids and derivatives, such as hydroxylated and bifunctional fatty acids, are fed instead of (vegetable) oil. Hereby we will identify what the most promising varieties are, and their production will be optimized. - Limitations in fermentation yield: Elucidation of the trigger effect of a hydrophobic carbon source in MEL production by Pseudozyma aphidis. To achieve this, the expression of MEL biosynthesis genes will be analyzed under various conditions, with the aid of RT-qPCR. This is also a support towards the other research components. For the production of MELs and oil, fermentation technology is used. Analyses will be carried out with the aid of chromatography. The conversion of industrial wastewater to VFA is done by means of acidogenesis in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR). For exploring the trigger effect of a hydrophobic carbon source on MEL production by P. aphidis, an RT-qPCR assay is first developed. This project forms a bridge between different areas of research within the research group Bio-Chemical Green Engineering & Materials (BioGEM) at the Faculty of Applied Engineering (FTI). These are water technology, industrial biotechnology and green and renewable materials.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: D'aes Jolien
• Fellow: Akkermans Veerle

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project is a cooperation between Pantarein Water and the the research group BioGEM. The main objective is the development of an innovative water reuse concept that integrates the advantages of aerobic granular sludge (fast settling dense and highly active sludge granules) and membrane processes (water reuse potential). The research hypothesis is that the application of aerobic granular sludge in membrane bioreactors significantly lowers the rate of membrane fouling.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Fellow: Stes Hannah

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Aerobic granular sludge represents a revolutionary new biological treatment system based on the formation of very dense microbial aggregates. An interesting feature of the granules is the high content of alginates, which are extracellular biopolymers with valuable applications. The aims of the current project are (1) the maximization of the alginate yield, and (2) the optimization of the polymer extraction procedure.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: D'aes Jolien

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project involves the pilot-scale demonstration of innovative nitrogen removal from slaughterhouse wastewater by nitritation/denitritation in a conventional activated sludge plant. A shortcut in de nitrogen cycle via nitrite (in stead of nitrate) reduces aeration requirements by 25% (for nitrification) and COD demand by 40% (for denitrification).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Production of poly-3-hydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bioplastic by activated sludge is a promising strategy for valorization of wastewater, which could simultaneously lower the still too high production cost of PHAs. The aim of this project is to develop a fast and reliable quantitative PCR assay for routine analysis of PHA producing microorganisms in activated sludge.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: D'aes Jolien
• Co-promoter: Lebeer Sarah

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Although good performance of solid state fermentation (SSF) on the lab scale, the industrial scale process has drawbacks, such as, poor heat transfer and difficult pH control. Bottleneck is the lack of information about the kinetics in SSF systems caused by the heterogeneous nature and complexity of the process. This project aims to model the kinetics of Monascus growth on rice based on experiments in a computer controlled solid state fermenter.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Apers Sandra
• Co-promoter: Cos Paul

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this research project is to achieve and hold a stable and profound (>80% via nitrite) nitritation in granular sludge. Trough combine this two technologies, significant advantages in terms of energy – efficiency (saving 25% O2, 40% COD and settle times) and land use (saving till 75%) can be obtained. The harmonization of the factors that benefits on one hand the granulation and on the other the nitritation will be the main challenge of this research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Blust Ronny
• Co-promoter: Geuens Luc
• Fellow: Dobbeleers Thomas

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The global aim of the project is to determine the optimal control strategy to achieve a stable and significant degree of partial nitrification/denitrification in conventional activated sludge systems. The application of this technology results in some major advantages in terms of energy and process efficiency: 25% less oxygen needed during nitrificatio, 40% less COD required for denitrification...

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Dries Jan

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project