Projects

Abstract

In 2019, Flanders experienced severe droughts, with over 40% of renewable freshwater used for human activities, putting it on par with water-stressed regions like Spain and Greece. Water reuse has since become a critical practice for industries requiring high-quality effluent. Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are widely used in industrial water reuse for their space-saving and process-intensifying capabilities. However, they are costly, energy-intensive, and prone to fouling due to poor oxygen transfer efficiency. To overcome these challenges, membrane-aerated membrane bioreactor (MA-MBR) technology replaces bubble aeration with more efficient oxygen transfer (>30%), reducing energy consumption, significantly reducing the energy cost compared to traditional MBRs. We are focusing on industrial applications, where improving cost-competitiveness remains a priority. To advance its technical readiness level (TRL), we are constructing a rack-based prototype reactor that can be used in a relevant (on site) environment, as well as continuing our lab-scale reactor where we'll explore treating real brewery wastewater. On the commercial front, we are evaluating our market-entry strategy, including options for licensing or spinning off. We plan to collect insights through the stakeholder interactions and expanding our strategic partnerships with both potential customers and end-users. By demonstrating above mentioned aspects, we produce a product that is closer to market entry through preferably a spinoff or else a license agreement.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Winckel Tim
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

RESTOC aims to test the use of three CO2 removal (CDR) techniques - enhanced weathering (EW) of silicates, biochar (BC), and soil carbon sequestration (SCS) - for restoring degraded soils. Besides sequestering CO2, these combined techniques are expected to enhance soil water retention, to provide a natural source of essential micro- and macro-nutrients, and to create a stable soil matrix for agriculture. In this project, we will conduct a mesocosm experiment to assess in detail the impact of fundamental aspects of the method on soil development, plant growth and plant nutrients. These results will be used in a geochemical model, providing key insights into the processes involved in soil C sequestration, as well as a quantification of the long-term CDR potential of the technology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Co-promoter: Niron Harun

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A shift towards sustainable nitrogen (N) management is crucial to reduce the environmental impact of livestock production. Circular solutions can furthermore reduce Europe's reliance on energy-intensive conventional N fertilisers produced via the Haber-Bosch process, and lower the environmental impact of agriculture. Recovering N from waste streams from the agri-food chain helps to minimize the risk of nitrogen leaching into the environment. BioNECSUS aims to explore an innovative N-recovery technology that converts gaseous or liquid nitrogenous waste streams such as manure digestates into refined and concentrated liquid ammonium nitrate solutions. The development of this technology will be guided by evaluations of its technical performance, as well as its ecological and economic impact.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Nimmegeers Philippe
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This proposal aims to deepen our understanding of the carbon sequestration potential of enhanced weathering (EW), a promising carbon dioxide removal technology. The project addresses a critical gap in EW research by integrating organic carbon cycles into a geochemical modelling tool to unravel the organic-inorganic interactions in soil systems amended with EW. Specific objectives to reach this goal are: (i) integrating essential soil organic carbon (SOC) processes into the PHREEQC model to enable simulation of EW effects on SOC turnover and stabilisation; (ii) incorporating EW-plant interactions to assess their influence; (iii) including the synergistic effects of EW and biochar (BC) to further explore inorganic-organic interactions and to quantify potential synergies of EW and BC for carbon sequestration. The anticipated outcomes of this research project include the development of an EW model written in the PHREEQC 1D-reactive transport model including EW-SOC interactions induced by weathering and influencing weathering. Moreover, insights into plant-EW interactions are expected to be given by the development of a model that simulates these interactions. Additionally, the project attempts to generate a PHREEQC module that integrates geochemical reactions catalysed by a combined BC-EW amendment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Vandenhove Charline

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Global population growth necessitates meeting nutritional demands while mitigating environmental impact. Seaweed aquaculture emerges as a promising avenue to address these challenges, offering sustainable biomass for pharma- and nutraceutical applications. However, open-sea cultivation faces environmental risks such as heat waves and storms, leading to biomass loss and reduced yields. Onshore cultivation presents a viable alternative, despite potential land use concerns. Because the aquaculture sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, there is a push for innovative approaches to boost productivity and sustainability. Recent studies highlight the benefits of incorporating purple non-sulphur bacteria (PNSB) as biofertilizers and bio-stimulants in terrestrial agriculture. This research seeks to harness the potential of marine PNSB strains for seaweed cultivation through microbial engineering of the seaweed holobiont. The methodology involves the discovery and selection of suitable marine PNSB strains, developing a co-cultivation system and investigating the nutritional composition and health-effects of this purple-boosted seaweed. The primary focus is on achieving a high-quality seaweed product enriched with bioactive compounds from PNSB, rendering it suitable for applied nutritional applications for both human consumption and aquaculture feeds.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Olyslaegers Sara

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Agriculture and synthetic fertilizers are responsible for 19% of global greenhouse gas emissions and significant reactive nitrogen emissions, contributing to environmental challenges. Seeking a natural solution, we turn to basalt weathering, a process that sequesters large amounts of CO2 over millennia while releasing essential nutrients vital for plant growth, soil health, and resilience to drought. We propose to harness this natural process in a controlled bioreactor enhanced by Bacillus subtilis. This bacterium augments mineral weathering through the production of organic acids, enzymes, and secondary metabolites that additionally bolster plant health and disease resistance. Our proposed method involves pre-weathering basalt in a bioreactor, enhanced by B. subtilis, and simultaneously sequestering CO2 while producing a fertilizer. The resulting climate- and nitrogen-friendly fertilizer will be used to cultivate the N-fixing alfalfa with further in-field weathering and CO2 capture. Key objectives include optimizing B. subtilis growth conditions, constructing and operating the bioreactor for fertilizer production, and assessing the resulting fertilizer's impact on crop yields, soil health, and CO2 sequestration rates during in-field weathering. A comprehensive evaluation will consider ecological and economic implications, guiding the development of sustainable agricultural practices.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Czub Kaja

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Purplex project is a pioneering research initiative exploring the potential of purple phototrophic bacteria (PPB) in extreme halophilic conditions for the sustainable production of natural pigments. Aimed at addressing the growing preference for natural over synthetic pigments, the project focuses on isolating new high-salinity-tolerant PPB strains and studying their pigment production capabilities, particularly carotenoids and bacteriochlorophylls (BChl). Employing advanced genome-scale computational methods and flux balance analysis, the project seeks to optimize pigment production efficiency, surpassing traditional cultivation techniques. This approach is complemented by the utilization of cost-effective substrates, such as food industry byproducts, aligning with circular economy principles. Anticipated outcomes include a new collection of marine and halophilic PPB (HPPB) strains, innovative methods for pigment extraction, and optimized photobioreactor conditions for scalable pigment production. This project not only promises to enhance our understanding of HPPB but also aims to revolutionize sustainable pigment production, with broad applications across agri-food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Diaz Allegue Luis

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The CARES project focuses on the innovative utilization of coffee by-products for bioenergy and high-value bio products, promoting sustainable development in the Coffee Value Chain Agricultural sector of Ethiopia, Africa's leading coffee producer. This initiative will boost the economy of big and smallholder farmers and help to establish a research network to explore the most sustainable methods for producing marketable, value added, eco-friendly products, involving stakeholders from societal, political and academic spheres. Addis Ababa Institute of Technology will enhance the regional impact, through multidisciplinary research and innovation. CARES adopts circular economy concepts, to maximize usage of coffee plantation by-products with unique recycling, and valorisation methods to strengthen collaboration and skill transfer between Ethiopian and Belgian entities, in line with VLIR-UOS' commitment to technology transfer, sustainability and innovation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Diaz Allegue Luis
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of BlueGreen Governance is to develop innovative land-sea governance schemes based on scientific evidence and societal choices. The current management of oceans, seas and coasts is fragmented across multiple institutional layers and policy areas and based on past experience. BlueGreen Governance pursues an innovative approach to the governance of the seas and coastal areas that: promotes integration between institutional layers and across policy sectors with a clear impact on the use of the land and the sea; involves and engages citizens in decision-making processes, while at the same time including scientific evidence; responds predictively to changing physical conditions as indicated by scientific evidence as well as indigenous and local knowledge and citizen science; and uses e governance tools in support of the previous three points. With this focus and approach, the project responds to the need for better informed decision-making processes, social engagement and digital innovation while promoting more harmonious and effective science policy-society interfaces. The promotion of better science-policy, science-society and society-policy interactions will be embedded in the digital transformation and application of e-governance tools for co-design and service delivery. BlueGreen Governance will implement and assess these innovative governance schemes in 8 cases across several European regions and sea basins and will draw lessons on how to trigger and facilitate effective institutional change via capacity building. The cases are: Comunidad Valenciana; North Adriatic; the Solent; Western Scheldt; Oslofjord; Canary Islands and Reunion. With this geographical scope, the project will investigate five marine basins (Western Mediterranean Sea, Eastern Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean), including one transnational marine basin (i.e. the North Adriatic case) and one transnational river basin (i.e. the Western Scheldt case).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Crabbé Ann

Research team(s)

• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change
• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Water scarcity is a major issue in Flanders. Up to 80% of our available water resources are utilized, meaning it is high time for integrative solutions that focus on water reuse, preferably decentralized. Source-separated grey water is the largest stream by volume and thus ideal candidate for decentralized domestic water reuse. Current state-of-the-art to achieve this is utilize a membrane biofilm reactor (MBR), which has the advantage of being compact. MBRs, however, have a high energy demand and maintenance, making them relatively expensive to maintain. TwinMemBio tackles these disadvantages by combining a membrane aeration biofilm reactor (MABR) with an MBR to create a system with low energy demand a decreased maintenance. TwinMemBio's unique control strategy makes it an excellent choice for places that require the highest standard for non-potable reuse while also requiring low energy and maintenance cost, making it an excellent choice for decentralized domestic source-separated water treatment and reuse.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Winckel Tim
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

CARBIZON provides a new technology for soil engineering. It is our ambition to achieve 'negative erosion with CO2 removal': rebuilding soils based on natural soil regeneration technology, combined with CO2 sequestration. To achieve this, CARBIZON combines three nature-based carbon dioxide removal methods (CDRs) to rapidly restore fertile topsoil. The technology provides a drastic solution to the longstanding issue of soil degradation in the Global South. With CARBIZON, we aim to reverse the effects of soil degradation and create healthy, fertile soils that can re-support sustainable agriculture, while also taking up massive amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. The issue of soil degradation is a major concern in the Global South, affecting millions of individuals who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Key value of CARBIZON technology lies in its potential beyond carbon sequestration. The CARBIZON approach improves soil water retention (rendering irrigation more efficient), it provides a natural source of essential micro- and macro-nutrients, fostering healthy crop growth, and creates a stable soil matrix that fosters soil health and prevents renewed erosion. Our approach ensures that the soil is not only climate-proof, but also resource-smart, making it suitable for sustainable agriculture in the long run. We envision that CARBIZON will deliver the crucial foundation to initiate the development of a carbon-as-a-service business model in soil restoration, providing landowners and governments with the innovation potential to restore degraded soils. Our approach puts a sustainable business model into future-proofing soils in the Global South, largely financed by the carbon market through the sales of the carbon credits obtained by CO2 sequestration.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Co-promoter: Janssens Ivan
• Co-promoter: Struyf Eric

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Water is essential for human survival, but providing water to everyone is a challenge (Sustainable Development Goal 6). Specifically for disaster relief, the provision of clean water is a top priority, but it is very complex to set up and requires a technology that consumes little energy, and requires little area and maintenance. In this framework, we are investigating decentralised, local water treatment and reuse in a new combined membrane-aerated and -filtered bioreactor due to its low aeration energy and low surface need for sludge and water separation, with, in addition, potentially lower maintenance costs for the filtration membranes compared to classical membrane bioreactor systems. Through this project, the control strategy will be optimised to achieve maximum pollutant removal and efficiency to reliably achieve effluent qualities that meet reuse requirements.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Timmer Marijn Juliaan

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Single-cell protein (SCP) production on food and beverage effluents is a resource-efficient water treatment approach, upgrading organics and nitrogen into protein for animal feed. These effluents are economically suitable for high-rate production of aerobic heterotrophic microorganisms (AHM) in open systems. However, fluctuations intrinsic to this approach lead to variability in nutritional quality of the SCP, and production costs of biomass downstream processing, still challenge the applicability of SCP technology. While an array of environmental biotech solutions showed the potential of biostimulation (co-substrate dosing) or bioaugmentation (target organism seeding), these tools have not yet been explored for SCP production on wastewater. SMArT aims to create a more stable and predictable microbial community leading to better nutritional quality using smart biostimulation and -augmentation strategies, based on renewable co-substrates, high-chance-to-thrive bacteria and yeast in a novel nursery concept. Biostimulant choice and dose will be tested with target AHM from enrichment cultures and literature. A sidestream nursery reactor is envisaged with optimal growth conditions to be coupled to the mainstream SCP reactor. Based on biomass yield and quality, the most prosperous configuration will be tested with real effluent. The advanced community engineering technology of SMArT aims a better SCP product that is attractive as a reliable and sustainable feed ingredient.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris
• Fellow: González Cámara Sergio

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Environmental pressure, urbanisation and resource intensity have shifted the focal point of sewage treatment from public health protection to resource efficiency and recovery. Centralized sanitation is limited in its recovery potential while implementing extreme decentralization may be infeasible in a fast enough timeframe. As urine is highly concentrated in N, P and micropollutants, its decentralised treatment has promising application potential. This proposal argues that diverted urine can provide an overall bigger benefit when seen as a multi-resource product used within system boundaries of urban sanitation, rather than exported outside as a fertiliser or as N2. We hypothesize that the urban sanitation system can significantly improve its resource efficiency and sustainability by decentralized alkalinization, nitrification and activated carbon treatment to generate a multi-component (COD, N, S, P) benefit. Technologies and control strategies, such as energy-efficient membrane oxygenation and nitrified urine dosing in sewers, will be investigated and integrated in terms of kinetics, microbiomes, emissions and overall performance. This paradigm shift will lead to lower operational costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, better odour management, intensification at the central level and lower energy consumption than both a conventional centralised sanitation system as well as a system with extreme decentral urine management for nutrient recovery or efficient removal.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Van Winckel Tim
• Fellow: De Corte Iris

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Flanders together with many other regions in Europa has suffered through one of its driest summers in history and this will unfortunately not be a singular event. To ensure sufficient water availability for all actors in the Flemish region (drinking water, agriculture, industry…), we need to significantly increase the resilience of our water management through optimization of existing infrastructures, stimulation of circular water practices and strategic investments in new infrastructure. However, water management is inherently a very complex subject touching many different actors and covering a large spatial scale. Building water resilience thus requires a decision making tool which is able to incorporate this complexity in order to support holistic decisions that can balance multiple objectives. However, bringing available data and modelling tools together over different scales and application domains to address high level technological or societal challenges is not possible with tools that are currently available. This project will use methodologies based on semantic web standards. More specifically, data standards, a ontology model and a dynamic knowledge graph will be developed as a way to encode and structure knowledge and as such create a standardized and holistic structure of the water domain. The knowledge graph will be dynamic so it can be continuously populated with new data (sensor data, design data, simulation data) and integration of predictive models and optimization algorithms will be foreseen within its structure allowing for the analysis of holistic scenarios to support decision making. Knowledge graphs can be built in a modular way creating a lot of flexibility for future developments/updates. Since they are based on standardized web semantics they can be easily queried (used to answer questions). Moreover their standardized form also allows coupling to other sectors (such as energy) for cross-domain decision making.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Spiller Marc
• Co-promoter: Van Winckel Tim

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

CO2 is a potent greenhouse gas and the primary cause of global climate change (GCC). Among others, GCC induces extreme weather events, producing an extensive impact on natural and agricultural systems. Climate change mitigation requires an urgent decrease in CO2 emissions together with active CO2 removal from the atmosphere. Enhanced silicate weathering (ESW) is a promising negative emission technology for CO2 removal but requires further research. ESW accelerates the natural process of weathering-based silicate to carbonate transformation, by increasing the surface area of silicate rocks. During the weathering process, CO2 is sequestered. Agricultural fields are ideal for ESW, due to ease of access, equipment availability and infrastructural capacity. In an agricultural setting, this application can be further beneficial as the silicate rocks like basalt contains elements that promote plant growth and soil health. In addition, GCC endangers crop production by inducing drought and salinity. Approximately 75% of the cropland is subjected to drought-related yield loss while salinity affects around 50-80% of global croplands. Moreover, impacts of drought and salinity are anticipated to rise in the future due to GCC. The negative effects of drought and salinity can be countered by ESW through (i) the preservation of crop yield and quality by the silicon (Si) mediated drought and salt stress tolerance in plants and (ii) the protection of soil microbiota by the stabilization of soil chemistry. Although ESW could contribute to climate change adaptation in agriculture, these promising co-benefits were never assessed, and further research is needed to evaluate this potential in different agriculturalsettings. In project CORES, I aim to examine the potential of ESW, with silicate mineral basalt, for the protection of yield and quality of major crop maize and associated soil microbiota under drought and saline conditions and establish the groundwork for future field trials.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Niron Harun

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) show great potential for environmental biotechnology, producing microbial protein, biohydrogen, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), pigments,... Grown photoorganoheterotrophically, the carbon source is typically more reduced than PNSB biomass, which leads to a redox imbalance. To mitigate the excess of electrons, PNSB can exhibit several 'electron sinking' strategies such as CO2 fixation or H2 production. However, the fundamental understanding of the mechanisms they use to adapt to reduced carbon sources is mostly unknown. Redoxome addresses this knowledge gap with the following questions: i) how do PNSB adapt to individual carbon sources of different electron richness and mixtures thereof, and ii) how do the adaptation mechanisms affect their competitiveness when multiple PNSB are competing for the same resource(s)? For the first time, we address the role played by gene duplication, genome plasticity, and metabolic heterogeneity in bacterial cultures. The complementary expertise of UAntwerpen and UMONS will be combined to decipher their adaptive mechanisms at the metabolic, genetic, functional, and ecological levels, studying pure cultures and bacterial consortia. The fundamental knowledge generated in Redoxome will accelerate applied research initiatives based on PNSB for environmental biotechnology applications.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Alloul Abbas

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A structural transformation of our food system is needed to sustainably feed the global population and meet the increasing demand for protein sources. However, conventional animal production relies much on arable land and fossil fuels, calling for a protein transition. Microbial biomass can be produced without arable land, on renewable sources. One original approach is to produce added-value purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) using H2 for electrons, CO2 for carbon, and light for energy. Today, exploration of photoautohydrogenotrophic PNSB production is limited to promising flask tests. The objective of RhodoMeal is to pioneer in producing nutritious protein meal from Rhodobacter capsulatus in a new photobioreactor on H2 and CO2. The first aim is to understand how the choice of wavelength(s) can tune the protein content and composition. Then, a two-compartment reactor with operational strategy will be developed that is efficient, productive and scalable. After batch production also cost-saving continuous operation will be examined. Finally, for the first time, food-relevant functional properties (foaming, emulsification, gelation) of PNSB products will be mapped. The effect of pre-harvest modifications on these properties will be studied, as well as their behavior in conditions relevant in food systems. RhodoMeal closely aligns with the sustainable H2 and CO2-based economy and aims at a nutritionally and functionally attractive protein ingredient for the food industry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Blansaer Naïm

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) will be needed to achieve Paris' agreement targets. Terrestrial Enhanced Weathering (TEW) is a promising CDR technique as it is simple, requires no additional land and is self-operational once installed with a range of potential co-benefits (e.g. increased plant productivity) along with permanent C capture on a human timescale. Only few studies exist on silicate amendment in forests relative to agricultural TEW. However globally, cropland and forests occupy a similar area and pioneered forest silicate amendment elevated wood production (biotic CDR) using the relatively scarce silicate wollastonite. Basalt is an attractive silicate for TEW as it is globally abundant, safe (low in heavy metals) and a by-product from mining. Nevertheless, to date, uncertain, unvalidated inorganic CDR model estimates & a lack of research on how TEW affects soil organic carbon (SOC) and biotic C sequestration hinder reliable carbon crediting and consequently large scale TEW adoption. Current models of inorganic CDR by TEW come with the disadvantage of either excluding biology or oversimplifying geochemical processes. Therefore, in this project, I aim to investigate inorganic and biotic CDR in a basalt-afforestation TEW field study and long-term effects on SOC stocks. Finally, I aim to construct an integrated model, including complex geochemistry and biological processes, validated by diverse experimental data.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Vienne Arthur

Research team(s)

• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change
• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

An active removal of CO2 from the atmosphere will be necessary to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. This project focusses on the novel CO2 capture method of enhanced weathering (EW), which involves the amendment of ground silicates to agricultural soils. Besides natural minerals, steel slags (silicates produced as a by-product in the steel industry) are also suitable for EW, making this technique even more sustainable. Recent scientific work has proven the inorganic carbon capture ability of this state-of-the-art method and revealed co-benefits for soil fertility (e.g. drought resilience, nutrient availability, etc.). This early research is however missing an important piece of the puzzle. Despite the well-known importance of organic matter for soil health and carbon storage, the impact of EW on organic carbon has not yet been studied. Considering known mechanisms governing organic carbon stocks in soils, I hypothesise that EW will lead to an increase of organic carbon sequestration and therefore to an amplification of the climate change mitigation potential. If confirmed, EW could aid in abating the problem of diminishing organic carbon stocks in agricultural soils, while improving soil fertility and capturing CO2 from the atmosphere. Hence, the proposed project would not only contribute to substantial progress within the emerging research field of EW but also to the creation of sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Steinwidder Laura

Research team(s)

• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change
• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The fate of the land carbon (C) sink is a major source of uncertainty in climate change projections. This uncertainty originates to a considerable degree from difficulties in estimating ecosystem responses to climate change itself, which depend on multiple factors. While moderating roles of for example ecosystem type and background climate are understood and accounted for in models, much less is known on how soil properties, resource availability and microbial symbionts influence global-scale responses to warming and precipitation change. I hypothesize that these soil-related factors explain to a significant degree why climate change responses vary so much, given their known role in determining ecosystem function. By using complementary benefits of ongoing, distributed climate change experiments and meta-analyses on a database I and international colleagues collaborated on, I aim to unravel global-scale patterns as well as in-depth mechanisms underlying soils' and symbionts' role in determining climate change responses. Using a novel approach to quantify nutrient availability, I here for the first time also plan to assess how climate change responses vary along resource availability gradients vs manipulations. Finally, I will evaluate if current land surface models realistically simulate soil/symbiont-dependent tradeoffs among C cycle pool and flux responses to climate change. Based on the findings, the project will contribute to more realistic projections of the land C sink.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Van Sundert Kevin

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In the EU, about 60% of the human protein demand is satisfied by animal-based protein sources. The livestock farming necessary to satisfy this demand is responsible for more than 80% of the NH3 and GHG emissions as well as nearly 70% of the biodiversity loss. Therefore, the EU has declared a need to reinvent the farm-to-fork value chain and to initiate a protein transition that entails reduced per capita protein consumption, the increased use of non-animal based protein sources and technological advances. Current assessments of the protein farm-to-fork value chain lack the integration of environmental systems analyses, socio-economics and engineering to adequately understand and quantify the environmental impacts of transition pathways. The aim of the ProChain project is to address these shortcoming by merging the strengths from these different disciplines and to develop novel methods and insights in three areas: i) the effective combination of life cycle assessment and material flow analysis to provide a farm-to-fork perspective on environmental impacts, while including the valorization of by-products and identification of marginal suppliers; ii) the elicitation of choice behaviors of actors along the value chain, to quantify the choice variables that shape transition pathways and; iii) to develop a prospective approach to LCA/MFA using technology assessment and socio-economic methods to quantify the environmental impacts of plausible future protein transition pathways. The pork meat production system in Flanders is used as a case from which prospective development pathways will be generated and evaluated using consequential LCA, the structural analysis approach, causal loop diagrams, technology learning & diffusion, innovation adaption concepts, bottom-up scenarios, change propagation & input-output modelling. By integrating these different methods from environmental sciences, engineering and socio-economics novel insights into the options for the manipulation the protein value chain at its environmental consequences will be generated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) are essential for all forms of life. The demand for these nutrients is constantly growing as a result of a rising population. Since the primary production of fertilizers leads to serious environmental impacts, the EU has declared an urgent need to reinvent the farm-to-fork value chain. Flanders is a nutrient-intensive region with a large potential for N and P recycling, especially in concentrated waste streams from livestock production, food processing, and wastewater treatment. The possible recycling technologies that can be used to achieve a more circular economy in this region are manifold. In order to allow decision-makers to plan this transition, the NutriChoice project is going to apply an interdisciplinary approach from the fields of environmental system analyses, socio-economics, and engineering. Novel methods and insights are going to be developed in three areas: i) the elicitation of choice behaviours of actors along the value chain, to quantify the choice variables that shape transition pathways; ii) the development of a prospective technology assessment for N and P recovery; and iii) the development of scenarios (MFA) for N and P in 2050. Conceptual maps, multiple-criteria decision analysis, technology development, technological learning & diffusion, and ex-ante consequential MFA will be used to propose intervention strategies that can effectively reduce the impact of the agro-food system in Flanders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Spiller Marc
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven
• Fellow: Santolin Julia

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Sustainable water management is a key societal challenge of global and local relevance, necessitating highly resource-efficient treatment of domestic wastewater in terms of aeration energy and space needs and, recovery of water, energy, nutrients and carbon. Source separated decentralized grey and black water treatment greatly improves resource efficiency compared to centralized mixed sewage treatment, yet has limited implementation. Membrane-aerated biofilm reactors (MABR) are extremely energy and space efficient, but await exploration for source separation or CO2 capture concepts. Membrane bioreactors (MBR) are key to water recovery, yet lack matching with the MABR. MemBreather aims to ambitiously combine membrane aeration and membrane effluent filtration for extreme resource efficiency. Strategies will be developed to manage gassing, hybrid biomass growth (biofilm and flocs) and filtration in this unique dual membrane system. Design and operation tactics on the COD/N range from black water digestate to grey water will be investigated, including advanced control for resource-efficient nitritation/denitritation and partial nitritation/anammox. Half and full nitrification on N-rich black water digestate are explored for maximum N-recovery towards fertigation or hydroponics. Membrane collection of CO2 will be developed for C-rich grey water, i.e. for greenhouse fertilization. Preliminary economic estimations will yield the feasibility of these novel MABR-based solutions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Timmer Marijn Juliaan

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) and black carbon (BC) exposure pose a major environmental risk factor to our health, since it is estimated to have caused 4.2 million premature deaths in 2016. Although a significant amount of research has been invested in determining health effects related to air pollution on adults, still relatively few research exists on the most vulnerable part of the population, namely children. More specifically, research is missing on acute responses on respiratory functioning (RF) and on neurobehavioral abilities (NBA) of children due to PM and BC pollution. Children's exposure to atmospheric pollution is of special concern because their immune system, lungs and neuropsychological abilities are not fully developed yet when exposure begins, raising the possibility of more severe health outcomes than observed in adults. This project aims at determining the acute impacts of (dynamic) air pollution exposure on healthy children's RF and NBA. To do so, this project will conduct a monitoring campaign at the school and home environment of children of age 9-11, to evaluate PM and BC exposure and its short-term effect on RF and NBA. In extend, the project will combine high-resolution air quality monitoring of PM and BC using mobile sensors, with early RF and NBA responses, in order to monitor students on their way to and from school. With changes in behavior and a shift in transport modes, we then aim to observe possible changes in effects on RF and NBA.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Samson Roeland
• Co-promoter: Lamote Kevin
• Co-promoter: Verhulst Stijn
• Fellow: Hendrickx Hanne

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

While nearly all studies on resource recovery from urine focus on nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium, the fate of organic carbon has not been a core focus. It may be a surprise that about half of the total organic carbon (C) excreted by the human body in faecal matter and urine is effectively in urine, most of it under the form of urea, which is also the main nitrogen compound we excrete. Production of inorganic carbon from urea (ureolysis) has been well studied, and therefore most studies on urine organics are based on compounds exerting chemical oxygen demand (COD), representing about a quarter of the organic C. These COD containing metabolites are highly important as some have a strong and sometimes harmful influence on urine treatment and the subsequent use of urine-derived fertilizers. In recent years, studies have shown that the separation of organics removal and nitrogen stabilization leads to more efficient aeration and higher nitrification rates. This study will further contribute to the research conducted for the nitrifying 'compartment 3' (C3), as part of the Micro-Ecological Life Support System Alternative (MELiSSA) developed by the European Space Agency (ESA). The main goal will be to maximize the biological transformation of COD-containing metabolites to CO2, and study these during urine storage, nitrification and any optional additional treatment step. For the first time, light will be shed on the quality and quantity of a whole range of organics in urine, and their fate over the different treatment steps. An important aspect will be to elucidate the key metabolisms and microorganisms involved in these conversions, to propose an improved synthetic community for Space applications, which can provide a similar robust and extensive COD conversion as in existing terrestrial systems based on open communities. The study will help to improve carbon conversion efficiencies in urine treatment, but will also contribute to an optimal layout for carbon recovery in the downstream photoautotrophic compartments for food production. This PhD research by Nele Kirkerup is conducted mainly at Eawag/ETH Zürich, supervised by prof. Kai Udert, with a secondment to the University of Antwerp, supervised by prof. Siegfried Vlaeminck.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

At the 2015 climate summit in Paris, the world committed to limit warming to well below 2°C. Besides rapid and complete decarbonization of all sectors, achieving these targets will require deployment of negative emission technologies (NETs), which actively remove CO2 from the atmosphere and ensure long-term sequestration. Various techniques have been proposed, including several land-based solutions that involve the use of natural processes. However, no technique is yet available at scale and the lack of empirical data currently hampers development of realistic roadmaps for the necessary rapid, safe and large-scale deployment of NETs. A promising but yet poorly studied land-based NET is enhanced silicate weathering (EW). Thus far, research on the C sequestration potential of EW has been limited mostly to lab column experiments, which do not include soil and important biota and are thus still far from reality. Biota such as plants, mycorrhizal fungi and earthworms can be critical determinants of mineral weathering, but their influence on EW remains to be verified. On the other hand, field investigations face a major challenge because weathering products and hence C sequestration rates are very difficult to accurately quantify. This is especially due to the difficulty in determining leaching losses. The current project therefore envisions a crucial research step between the lab-based experiments and future applied large field-scale applications: mesocosm experiments which include important biota and at the same time allow for accurate quantification of weathering products and hence C sequestration rates. These mesocosm experiments will specifically test for the influence of important biota – plants, mycorrhizal fungi and earthworms – hence providing important information needed to extrapolate lab-based results to the real world.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Fellow: Boito Lucilla

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Conventional climate change mitigation alone will not be able to stabilise atmospheric CO2 concentrations at a level compatible with the 2°C warming limit of the Paris Agreement. Safe and scalable negative emission technologies (NETs), which actively remove CO2 from the atmosphere and ensure long-term carbon (C) sequestration, will be needed. Fast progress in NET-development is needed, if NETs are to serve as a risk-hedging mechanism for unexpected geopolitical events and for the transgression of tipping points in the Earth system. Still, no NETs are even on the verge of achieving a substantial contribution to the climate crisis in a sustainable, energy-efficient and cost-effective manner. BAM! develops 'super bio-accelerated mineral weathering' (BAM) as a radical, innovative solution to the NET challenge. While enhanced silicate weathering (ESW) was put forward as a potential NET earlier, we argue that current research focus on either 1/ ex natura carbonation or 2/ slow in natura ecosystem-based ESW, hampers the potential of the technology to provide a substantial contribution to negative emissions within the next two decades. BAM! focuses on an unparalleled reactor effort to maximize biotic weathering stimulation at low resource inputs, and implementation of an automated, rapidlearning process that allows to fast-adopt and improve on critical weathering rate breakthroughs. The direct transformational impact of BAM! lies in its ambition to develop a NET that serves as a climate risk hedging tool on the short term (within 10-20 years). BAM! builds on the natural powers that have triggered dramatic changes in the Earth's weathering environment, embedding them into a novel, reactor-based technology. The ambitious end-result is the development of an indispensable environmental remediation solution, that transforms large industrial CO2 emitters into no-net CO2 emitters.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Co-promoter: Janssens Ivan

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Conventional climate change mitigation alone will not be able to stabilise atmospheric CO2 concentrations at a level compatible with the 2°C warming limit of the Paris Agreement. Safe and scalable negative emission technologies (NETs), which actively remove CO2 from the atmosphere and ensure long-term carbon (C) sequestration, will be needed. Fast progress in NET-development is needed, if NETs are to serve as a risk-hedging mechanism for unexpected geopolitical events and for the transgression of tipping points in the Earth system. Still, no NETs are even on the verge of achieving a substantial contribution to the climate crisis in a sustainable, energy-efficient and cost-effective manner. BAM! develops 'super bio-accelerated mineral weathering' (BAM) as a radical, innovative solution to the NET challenge. While enhanced silicate weathering (ESW) was put forward as a potential NET earlier, we argue that current research focus on either 1/ ex natura carbonation or 2/ slow in natura ecosystem-based ESW, hampers the potential of the technology to provide a substantial contribution to negative emissions within the next two decades. BAM! focuses on an unparalleled reactor effort to maximize biotic weathering stimulation at low resource inputs, and implementation of an automated, rapidlearning process that allows to fast-adopt and improve on critical weathering rate breakthroughs. The direct transformational impact of BAM! lies in its ambition to develop a NET that serves as a climate risk hedging tool on the short term (within 10-20 years). BAM! builds on the natural powers that have triggered dramatic changes in the Earth's weathering environment, embedding them into a novel, reactor-based technology. The ambitious end-result is the development of an indispensable environmental remediation solution, that transforms large industrial CO2 emitters into no-net CO2 emitters.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Perreault Patrice

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Air pollution and ambient pollution, carbon-related issues ranging from GHG emissions to carbon shortages in soil, the opportunities provided by NBS and the intricacies of urban ecosystems present an extremely complex set of interdependent problems and opportunities that have to be addressed as such – interactively, mutually and innovatively. Upsurge is considering all these aspects and is providing evidence-based targeted responses that will enable EU cities to transition into a more regenerative future. At its core, Upsurge is presenting the European Regenerative Urban Lighthouse, which will enable cities to unlock their regenerative potential and provide them with knowledge and guidance in regenerative transition. Supported by an innovative continuous self-check progress mechanism (Regenerative Index) and by the Clearing House as a knowledge nerve centre, Upsurge will motivate cities and other clients through its networking activities to engage and step aboard the regenerative transition under Lighthouse's leadership. Upsurge is demonstrating technical excellence through a multimodal adaptable sensing system, through integrated and integrative digitalisation environment supported by IoT and AI, several real-life demonstrations and based on extrapolated criteria conducted simulative demonstrations showcasing the viability, feasibility and implementability of proposed technical solutions. The knowledge core of Upsurge will be introduced within the quintuple helix verification model bringing together all relevant factors affecting the implementation of NBS and thus regenerative change. Quintuple helix approach will truly enable the assessment and exploration of complementary beneficial effects provided by project solutions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We investigate the application of calcium silicate materials such as basalt and steel production residues for agricultural purposes. We want to answer the question whether such an application is a technically feasible, economically viable and environmentally preferred scenario to enhance carbon sequestration (climate mitigation) and drought resistance (climate adaptation) while also providing co-benefits such as increased crop yield and nutritional value. To this end, we combine in this interdisciplinary research project three types of expertise - chemical engineering and material science, biogeochemical and ecological research, life cycle and costing analyses - to identify the most environmentally and economically desirable approach. For each of these three expertise areas, we plan novel and timely research. Through a combined iterative and interactive approach we aim to maximize the applicability of the eventual results.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara

Research team(s)

• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change
• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A promising but yet poorly studied negative emission technology (NET) is accelerated silicate weathering (EW). Thus far, research on EW has mainly been limited to laboratory experiments, without soil and important biota. However, biota such as plants and soil can strongly influence mineral weathering. On the other hand, field investigations face a major challenge because weathering products and hence C sequestration are very difficult to accurately quantify. In this project mesocosm experiments will therefore be conducted to determine the influence of important biota, hence providing critical information needed to extrapolate lab-based results to the real world.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vicca Sara
• Co-promoter: Schoelynck Jonas

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)
• Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) - Ecology in a time of change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

BIOVEXO demonstrates a set of new and innovative biopesticides targeting the plant-pathogenic Xylella bacterium and its transmitting spittlebug vector, to fight a disease that seriously threatens olive and almond production in the European Mediterranean region. BIOVEXO's biopesticides will reduce the input of chemical insecticides and will sustainably increase and secure European olive cultivation in its valuable socio-economic context. The products will be tested for use in curative and preventive approaches (integrated pest management, IPM). BIOVEXO will provide a mechanistic understanding of the biopesticides' mode of action to support final product development and will ensure environmental and economic sustainability by performing a life cycle assessment (LCA) and risk, toxicity, and pathogenicity analyses. The University of Antwerp is mainly involved in the LCA activities. Thorough evaluation regarding regulatory compliance will prepare the products for smooth market entry post project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Moretti Michele
• Co-promoter: Spiller Marc

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Microbial protein is an alternative and sustainable protein source in animal feed and human food. Previous research demonstrated excellent replacement potential of less sustainable, conventional protein sources in aquafeeds and human diets. This project addresses engineering and nonengineering challenges to develop and implement novel microbial protein processes and products that are technically and societally viable. For the production of purple bacteria and aerobic heterotrophs, innovative secondary and renewable feedstocks will be considered. Microbial culture control tools and downstream processing innovations will be developed, along with their automation, to optimize the nutritional and functional quality of the biomass. To support decision-making on the implementation of novel 3 protein products and technologies, environmental impacts and social acceptance factors will be determined. The environmental impact of products and processes will be evaluated using life cycle assessment to determine whether they are superior to conventional protein sources. Social scientific inquiries, such as interviews and surveys, will be conducted to elicit acceptance factors of products and technologies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Alloul Abbas
• Co-promoter: Spiller Marc
• Co-promoter: Vandermoere Frederic

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Transforming the agriculture-based food system is urgently needed to sustainably feed the fast-growing world population. Microbial biomass production for human nutrition i.e. microbial protein provides a solution, particularly when produced on renewable H2 and CO2-derived compounds (e.g. CH4, CH3OH, HCOOH). Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are nutritionally appealing for photoheterotrophic protein production, as shown in our previous research. Despite being metabolic versatility champions, growth and nutritional quality of PNSB grown for aerobic or phototrophic hydrogen- or methylotrophy remains largely unexplored. PurpleSky's overall objective is to elucidate the use of H2 and C1 compounds for PNSB and steer towards nutritious biomass through a unique genome-scale computational approach. The project will pioneer in isolating new PNSB specialists on H2 and C1 compounds. Known and new strains will be tested in-silico for targeted nutritional quality tuning, based on genome-scale metabolic models and flux balance analyses. This mechanism-driven approach will enable to efficiently select best parameter and strain combinations for experimental validation. Finally, bioreactor proofs of concept for aerobic and phototrophic growth will be set up to explore how feeding strategy and photoperiod shape the nutritional quality. PurpleSky's mechanism-driven approach for nutritious microbial protein production is novel and a vital step forward for land- and fossil-free PNSB production.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Alloul Abbas

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Long-term missions to Mars or the Moon require an autonomous production of crucial crew consumables such as water, oxygen and food. Regenerative life support systems (RLSS) can refine and upgrade available streams (e.g. kitchen waste, faecal matter, urine, shower water and condensate) to such essential products. MELiSSA (micro-ecological life support system alternative) is the RLSS programme of the European space agency (ESA). Nitrification is a microbial process and plays a key role in MELiSSA, produce a stable nitrate-rich stream available for food production, with plants and microalgae. Expert consultancy to the MELiSSA pilot plant at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona should ensure a swift integration of urine nitrification in the complete life support loop.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of SARASWATI 2.0 is to identify best available and affordable technologies for decentralized wastewater treatment with scope of resource/energy recovery and reuse in urban and rural areas. Further, it addresses the challenge of real time monitoring and automation. Ten pilot technologies will demonstrate enhanced removal of organic pollution, nutrients, micro-pollutants and pathogens in India. All pilots allow for resource recovery contributing to the principles of a circular economy, and undergo a comprehensive performance assessment complemented by an sustainability assessment. UAntwerp, in collaboration with TUDelft and IITKharagpur, is involved in one of these pilots which is based on an innovative raceway reactor producing purple bacteria on the wastewater. UAntwerp will furthermore perform life cycle assessments (LCA) on the pilot technologies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Spiller Marc

Research team(s)

• Biobased sustainability engineering (SUSTAIN)

Project type(s)

• Research Project