Research Siegfried Vlaeminck

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

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

Ornamental fish is the third and fish most common group of pets in the United States and the European Union, respectively. This includes both tropical aquarium fish and ornamental cold-water pond fish. Perhaps the best-known examples of the latter are goldfish (Carassius auratus). A very exclusive but rapidly expanding market is that of Koi carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus), where a single fish can be priced in the range of 5 to 50.000 €, depending on size and coloration. The most expensive koi so far is a female Kohaku koi, named 'S Legend', that was sold for 1.8 million dollars in 2018. At such prices, the health of individual fish becomes extremely important, and nature-based nutraceutical products can play an important role in ensuring animal welfare. Results of our previous project PurpleGuppy showed that feed with a 2-10% replacement of fishmeal by microbial protein, particularly from the purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) Rhodobacter capsulatus or Rhodopseudomonas sphaeroides, enhanced growth and offspring production in the tropical aquarium fish Poecilia reticulata. Moreover, it increased the brightness of coloration (important parameter in shows and competitions) and strengthened the immune system, resulting in a 35% better survival (from 33% in control to 78% in PNSB-fed fish) after infection with the bacterial pathogen Aeromonas hydrophila. The currently proposed research will elaborate on this, with multispecies validation on tropical aquarium fish in a practically relevant settng to bring us from customer readiness level CRL 5-6 to CRL 6-7. On the other hand, we want to expand our knowledge to cold-water fish markets, with a focus on Koi carp as the species of interest as this is where most added value can be created. Special attention will be paid to disease resistance in winter temperatures (<10°C) when the immune system in koi is known to be weakened.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Boeck Gudrun
• Co-promoter: Diaz Allegue Luis
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Ecosphere

Project website

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

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to gain insight into the underlying motivations for the changing water consumption of Flemish household drinking water customers through a combination of a literature study, quantitative questionnaire and qualitative in-depth analysis. This will build on the findings of the "WaterValue" project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandermoere Frederic
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enviromics is a multidisciplinary consortium of UAntwerpen researchers across the board of environmental sciences and technologies. Through impactful fundamental advances and interdisciplinary approaches across biology, (bio)chemistry and (bio)engineering, the consortium offers bio based solutions to ecosystem challenges by a strong interaction between three pillars (i) Environmental applications and nature based solutions, (ii) Sensing and analysis of chemicals and environments and (iii) Microbial technology and biomaterials, supported by sustainable product development and technology assessment. Through a renewed and tighter focus the ENVIROMICS consortium now signs for a leaner and more dynamic shape. Through intensified collaborations with different stakeholders, both national and international, the leverage for creating enhanced business and societal impact is reinforced. The consortium is strongly managed by a team of two highly profiled researchers partnered by an IOF manager and a project manager with clearly defined tasks and in close contact with the consortium members and the central Valorisation Unit of the university. The consortium has a strong and growing IP position, mainly on environmental/electrochemical sensing and microbial probiotics, two key points of the research and applications program. One spinoff was created in 2017 and two more will be setup in the coming three years. The direct interaction with product developers ensures delivering high TRL products. Next to a growing portfolio of industrial contracts, we create tangible societal impact, when relevant including citizen science approaches. Through the stronger leverage created by the new structure and partnerships we will develop both intertwined branches significantly.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Blust Ronny
• Co-promoter: De Wael Karolien
• Co-promoter: Dries Jan
• Co-promoter: Du Bois Els
• Co-promoter: Lebeer Sarah
• Co-promoter: Meire Patrick
• Co-promoter: Meysman Filip
• Co-promoter: Samson Roeland
• Co-promoter: Schoelynck Jonas
• Co-promoter: Vandermoere Frederic
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Dardenne Freddy

Research team(s)

• Ecosphere

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

Microorganisms have been exploited from the earliest times for baking, brewing, and food preservation. More recently, the enormous versatility in biochemical and physiological properties of microbes has been exploited to create new chemicals and nanomaterials, and has led to bio-electrical systems employed for clean energy and waste management. Moreover, it has become clear that humans, animals and plants are greatly influenced by their microbiome, leading to new medical treatments and agricultural applications. Recent progress in molecular biology and genetic engineering provide a window of opportunity for developing new microbiology-based technology. Just as advances in physics and engineering transformed life in the 20th century, rapid progress in (micro)biology is poised to change the world in the decades to come. The Excellence Centre "Microbial Systems Technology" (MST) will assemble and consolidate the expertise in microbial ecology and technology at UAntwerpen, embracing state-of-the-art technologies and interdisciplinary systems biology approaches to better understand microbes and their environment and foster the development of transformational technologies and applications. MST connects recently established research lines across UAntwerpen in the fields of microbial ecology, medical microbial ecology, plant physiology, biomaterials and nanotechnology with essential expertise in Next Generation Sequencing and Bioinformatics. By joining forces, new and exciting developments can be more quickly integrated into research activities, thus catalyzing the development of novel microbial products and processes, including functional food, feed and fertilizers, probiotics, and novel biosensors and bio-electronics applications. This way, MST aims for an essential contribution to the sustainable improvement of human health and the environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Meysman Filip
• Co-promoter: Beemster Gerrit
• Co-promoter: Laukens Kris
• Co-promoter: Lebeer Sarah
• Co-promoter: Verbruggen Erik
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Geobiology

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The agri-food system faces environmental challenges, impacting freshwater quality and quantity, biodiversity, and climate. EU's Farm-to-Fork strategy promotes circular agriculture to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, cutting emissions. However, the concept lacks clarity and metrics. We introduce Cycle Count (CyCt) and Use Count (UseCt) as indicators. CyCt assesses nutrient use efficiency, while UseCt tracks nutrient cycling and losses. These indicators link nutrient management, efficiency, and loss reduction, which vary across agri-food systems. The indicators CyCt and UseCt aim to offer a benchmarking framework for sustainable food systems considering diversity and various practices.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Single-cell protein (SCP) production on food and beverage effluents is a resource-efficient water treatment approach, upgrading secondary organics and nitrogen to protein for animal feed. These feedstock and growth conditions are economically suitable for high-rate production of aerobic heterotrophic bacteria (AHB) in open systems. However, fluctuations intrinsic to this approach determine variability in nutritional quality of the SCP, limiting its applicability. 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. ProGenius aims to create a more stable and predictable microbial community leading to better nutritional quality using clever biostimulation and -augmentation strategies, based on renewable co-substrates, high-chance-to-thrive bacteria and a novel nursery concept. Biostimulant choice and dose will be tested with target bacteria from enrichment cultures and selected from 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 and parameter set will be tested with a real effluent. The advanced community engineering technology of ProGenius aims at a better SCP product that is attractive as a reliable and sustainable feed ingredient.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: González Cámara Sergio

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Closing loops is a key smart resource management priority in Flanders. The nitrogen (N) cycle in particular needs urgent attention, as current unsustainable management of ammoniacal nitrogen heavily impacts vulnerable ecosystems and our health. A key opportunity for smarter and more resource-efficient N management, is N recovery from gaseous and liquid waste streams, lowering emissions, replacing removal as N2 and/or decreasing required industrial production of synthetic fertiliser. The most established approach for N recovery is acid scrubbing, applied either on ammoniacal air or after stripping NH3 from a slurry or wastewater. However, the use of mineral acids is expensive and dangerous, and their production causes adverse environmental impacts. Furthermore, the typically obtained ammonium sulphate solution acidifies agricultural soils, linked to extra costs for liming. Nitraliser is an innovative and sustainable concept to biotechnologically produce protons and nitrate in a nitrifying biofilm reactor (bioconvert), recirculating over an upstream scrubber (capture) and over a downstream electrochemical cell or electrodialysis unit (concentrate). Research challenges relate to nitrification under extreme conditions, and to the design, operation parameters and coupling strategy with the other subunits. The obtained nitrate-based solutions have cost, safety and environmental advantages to acid scrubbing, and do not lead to soil acidification.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: De Sutter Vincent

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Healthy air is a key priority in Flanders, next to the extraction of resources from contaminated air and gases. The ammoniacal nitrogen (N) cycle needs our attention urgently. The current unsustainable management of ammoniacal nitrogen heavily impacts vulnerable ecosystems and our health. N recovery using acid scrubbing is widely applied but the use of mineral acids like sulphuric acid is expensive and dangerous. The production and transport of the mineral acids cause negative environmental impacts. The end product of scrubbing is an ammonium sulphate solution that acidifies agricultural soils with extra costs for liming. There is an important opportunity for more resource-efficient N management through N recovery from ammoniacal air and gases. We have the building blocks to develop technological solutions that use ammonia-rich air in a circular economy model as a raw material for the production of fertilizer. At the same time, we lower emissions and develop more sustainable pathways for the production of fertilisers. BioCatcher 2 studies an innovative bioscrubber concept based on microbial production of protons and nitrate. Development challenges relate to a smart coupling and control strategy between scrubbing and nitrification units, both operated under extreme conditions. The ammonia treatment and produced nitrate-based solutions have cost, safety and environmental advantages compared to acid scrubbing, and do not lead to soil acidification.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to gain insight into the perceived value of tap water by the Flemish domestic drinking water customer, its relationship with price perception, and the explanatory underlying factors through a combination of literature study, qualitative exploration and international comparative quantitative research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vandermoere Frederic
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Nutrients are vital, not only for individual organisms but also for entire ecosystems. The SKALAR SAN++ Advanced System allows us to analyze a whole range of nutrients in continuous flow. It is essential for the research of the new research group ECOSPHERE on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, where nutrient analysis in water, plants and soil are essential, and for the research group DuEL, where nutrient analysis in wastewater streams and microbial growth media are indispensable. The equipment also delivers analysis services to other research groups and external parties.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Boeck Gudrun
• Co-promoter: Bervoets Lieven
• Co-promoter: Schoelynck Jonas
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Ecosphere

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

PROMIPOL brings together an interdisciplinary team to provide a revolutionary new route for the production of polymers. We will do this by growing bacteria on building blocks derived from CO2 and CO such as ethanol and methanol. The bacteria are rich in protein (>60% of the dry weight) and whereas it is well known that certain proteins can be used e.g. to produce foils for food packaging there is today no knowledge on microbial protein as source of polymers for packaging or other applications. Moreover, depending on the growth conditions the bacteria can also produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) as a second polymer class. We will grow bacteria that are food grade, finetune ratios between proteins and PHA and then extract these two sources together or separately to maximize carbon yields. By processing these polymers with variable composition e.g. through extrusion and investigating their properties, we will for the first time be able to assess whether they can be used for food packaging or other applications. Based on the applications, potential markets will be investigated and the key research questions will be identified towards future joint projects.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Ornamental fish is the third and fifth most common group of pets in the United States and the European Union, respectively, with guppy being one of the most popular freshwater tropical fish. This market and associated environmental aspects continue to grow, spurring fish feed suppliers to use novel and ecological ingredients to boost health, fitness and color. Microalgal biomass, astaxanthin and several probiotics such as Pediococcus acidilactici are already available in commercial feed formulations for aquarists. A promising new sustainable ingredient is purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) biomass. Previous research has shown its use as a probiotic and alternative protein source for shrimp and other aquaculture applications. Patents and scientific literature on the implementation of PNSB biomass in ornamental fish feed are limited, except for the research performed by the University of Antwerp. PurpleGuppy aims to further demonstrate and valorize added-value properties of PNSB biomass in ornamental fish feed. Feeding trials with guppies intend to corroborate the health and esthetic benefits of PNSB as a feed ingredient, resulting in feed formulation protocols with an appealing benefit-cost ratio.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Boeck Gudrun
• Co-promoter: Alloul Abbas
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

• Ecosphere

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

The increasing global population and living standards necessitate a protein transition for a more sustainable food system. A solution lies in microbial protein, i.e. the use of microbial biomass as alternative protein source for human nutrition. This is particularly sustainable when based on renewable electron and carbon sources that do not require arable land nor fossil fuels. This is enabled by the movements towards green electrification and carbon capture which yield new routes to H2, CO2 and compounds derived from CO2 (e.g. methanol, formic acid, acetic acid). Key challenges are to produce microbial biomass on these compounds that is nutritious and practically usable. In the Air2Protein project, a target-driven approach will be used to select the best strains, metabolisms and cultivation conditions starting from H2, CO2 and/or CO2 derivatives. Herein, not only the protein 3 content is of interest, but also essential amino acids and fatty acids, and vitamins. Furthermore, novel stabilization and other downstream processing methods will be explored. Air2Protein aligns with the sustainable H2 and CO2 based economy, and aims to contribute to novel nutritious and usable protein ingredients for the food industry.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

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

Microbial protein is an alternative and sustainable source of protein in animal feed and human food. In this project, a novel production method for microbial protein is investigated on effluents from the food and beverage sector. Previous research for instance demonstrated excellent replacement potential of unsustainable protein sources in aquafeeds. Microbial community control tools will be developed, along with their automation, to optimize the nutritional quality of the biomass. Additionally, with drying as one of the larger cost items, research will optimize drying conditions and explore alternative downstream processing. The project will yield biotechnology to produce a costefficient high-quality microbial protein, facilitating access to the animal feed market. The animal husbandry sector is in urgent demand for alternative protein sources, and several valorization routes are possible, for instance based on licensing to food and beverage companies and/or wastewater technology firms.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Globally we are facing severe water stress and security challenges due to more frequent and serious droughts combined with increasing water demand by society. Industrial activities play a key role in societal water demand, while also frequently being the first to be affected by water shortages. For example, in the region of Flanders (Belgium), nearly a quarter of the gross value added is generated by industrial activities. Flanders is, however, also extremely water stressed with 40-80% of its water resources being utilized and 40% of the water demand being used by Flemish industry. Companies are also the first to lose their 'license to operate' in the event of drought; compromising their ability to generate economic output. The industry itself has voiced concerns about its resilience towards water shortage, yet it also admits to not being prepared to act upon it. Industrial water use is complex in terms of quantities, qualities and dynamics, rendering it difficult to uncover opportunities without the help of holistic computational tools. However, industrial sites offer opportunities for efficient water use and industrial ecology, as individual activities are located in close proximity and show diverse characteristics in terms of demand and supply. Efficient management of water with a focus on using 'alternative water sources' like reclaimed water and rainwater is therefore very important to support a sustainable growth of the Flemish economy. The Blue Deal of the Flemish government puts alternative water sourcing as a key goal, underlining the urgency of the challenge. The objective of the Water Reuse and Exchange Advanced Computational Tool (WaterREACT) is to prototype model code that minimizes water demand within industrial zones from external, 'conventional' sources, i.e. tap water, surface water and groundwater. WaterREACT aims to support planning for circular water and rainwater use at industrial sites. More specifically, the model algorithm will deliver computation-based decision inputs, through calculating scenarios that maximize water exchange based on alternative sources, and thus minimize dependency on conventional sources. Water demand and supply will be matched based on quantity, quality and temporality of the flows. Additionally, the proximity of the supply and demand points is accounted, along with the treatment options to upgrade water quality. Water exchange can be modelled for bilateral and multi-company exchanges. To support decision making, indicators considering water resilience, cost and environmental impacts are calculated for different scenarios. At an early stage of the project, customer demands will be elicited and use to define the minimal viable product and the valorization trajectories.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Legionella is a bacterium that can affect many processes operating at higher temperature or functioning discontinuously. Monitoring of this bacterium is currently done primarily through microbiological tests such as plating. This project investigates whether Legionella can be detected using artificial intelligence to monitor existing processes more efficiently.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By 2050, the planet will need to carry 9.7 billion people and their gorging consumption, putting major stress on meat production and fisheries alike. Half of the aquatic protein is currently coming from aquaculture, which sources 33% of its feed from wild catch, putting fish stocks and biodiversity at its limits. Single-cell protein (SCP) is proposed as an alternative to traditional aquafeed. This SCP can be produced from local waste streams, which creates a circular solution for the increasing pressure on wild fish stocks. The waste effluents of the economically important food and beverage industries provide major recovery opportunity, as they are produced in vast amounts and typically carry high organic and nutrient loads, while not being contaminated with pathogens or toxic elements. Aerobic heterotrophic bacteria (AHB), present in conventional wastewater treatments, pose an ideal SCP candidate, given their rapid growth rate and high protein content. The AquaPro project aims to establish a quality-steered resource recovery by AHB-based SCP cultivation on a wide variety of food/beverage industrial effluents. An integrated control system based on respirometry in combination with renewable methanol spiking is proposed to steer stability, quality and quantity of the SCP. The high-quality SCP end-product could be valorized as protein ingredient in aquafeed, providing a resource-efficient and sustainable answer to the growing protein gap, within the framework of a circular economy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: De Boeck Gudrun
• Fellow: Willemen Annemie

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In NutriFlow, Ghent University, the University of Antwerp, the European Biogas Association and United Experts collaborate to execute material/substance flow analyses (MFA/SFA) for the Flanders Environment Agency (VMM). More specifically, flows of nitrogen, phosphorus and protein are targeted with the agri-food chain. Useful indicator parameters will be derived from these to score the sustainability of managing the related resources and products.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this collaboration between SEMiLLA IPStar, the Amsterdam Institute for Advanced Metropolitan Solutions (AMS) and the University of Antwerp a proof of concept will be delivered for terrestrial valorisation of Space technology. In the micro-ecological life support system alternative (MELiSSA) programme from the European Space Agency (ESA), purple bacteria play a key role in treating waste streams and producing high-quality biomass. The potential will be investigated using a raceway reactor, including usage of the products for plant production.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Beneficial microbes have a plethora of biomedical, environmental and engineering applications. Currently, many fundamental and more applied R&D projects are slowed down by the need for advanced equipment for the upscaling and processing of the microbial cultures. Here, a research consortium of bio-engineers, civil engineers, biologists and pharmaceutical engineers was built to jointly advance the applications and research of beneficial microbes at UAntwerpen. This consortium aims to manage joint equipment and expertise. The core of the equipment is a 100 l pilot bioreactor suited for bacteria, yeasts and algae. It is fully computer controlled and monitored, and equipped with a steam-in-place (SIP) unit. The system is equipped with several sensors and valves allowing automated control of important parameters (e.g. pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity, …). The whole system is GMP- compatible and in pharmaceutical- grade steel. A 10 l bioreactor is foreseen for optimizing culturing conditions. The reactors are complemented with an incubator-shaker for the growth of inocula and postprocessing equipment to professionally process the biomass. The post-processing equipment mainly consists of a large scale, low- to- high speed cooled centrifuge and a pilot spray dryer for final processing for extended shelf life of the biomass and work up of the biomass towards its final application.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Lebeer Sarah
• Co-promoter: Kiekens Filip
• Co-promoter: Meysman Filip
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Only around 20% of the N entering the EU agricultural system is converted to finished products for human consumption. This result in large leakage of reactive nitrogen into the environment with negative impacts on soils, water and air, which are associated with health problems and environmental damage. Although nitrogen is a renewable resource, the industrial synthesis of nitrogen to ammonia is highly energy-intense (in the Haber-Bosch process) and releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. The industrial production of reactive nitrogen can be reduced by recovering nitrogen from waste streams as useful products to apply directly or indirectly (after further processing) as fertilizers. Flanders is designated as a nitrate vulnerable zone, which indicates the need for additional measure to protect and safeguard the environment. This highlights the need to increase nutrient usage efficiency through a more sustainable waste management system targeting the recovery and reuse of nutrients embedded in waste streams. Ammonium-rich liquid streams can be subjected to state-of-the-art stripping and acid scrubbing. Ammonia-rich gases or air with acid scrubbing. The extensive implementation of conventional stripping/scrubbing technology is prevented by several disadvantages: i) high operational costs, and ii) usage and storage of acids posing significant risks to human and environmental health. BioCatcher addresses these challenges as it aims to biologically and sustainably circumvent the use of scrubbing acids. In the project the operational boundaries will be explored and defined to understand the critical parameters. Secondly, a prototype reactor will be tested and optimised to overcome reach maximum concentrations of useful compounds. Finally, the economic viability will be evaluated.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Long-duration human spaceflight has gained more public interest in recent years yet comes with grand and unique engineering challenges. Cabin pressure is predominantly dictated by the amount of inert nitrogen gas present and small losses in long missions may create conditions not fit for life. At present day, no space technology exists to generate lost nitrogen gas from locally available resources. On Earth, nitrogen gas is microbially regenerated with bacteria performing denitrification or anammox, processes which have been successfully applied in for instance wastewater treatment plants. This study aims to extrapolate such microbial technology to space applications, where the nitrogen present in urine of astronauts can be converted to inert nitrogen gas. The "Nitrogenisor" will use partial nitritation/anammox as energy- and resource-efficient process with minimum co-production of carbon dioxide. Application of this process in a membrane-aerated biofilm reactor will enable gravity independent aeration. Nitrogenisor would decrease the need to haul nitrogen gas from Earth, while simultaneously mitigating risks linked to the waste produced on the spaceflight.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aquaculture feed and ornamental fish food markets depend mainly on fishmeal as protein source, yet its use is highly controversial as its production relies primarily on fish caught in the wild resulting in overexploitation of natural fish stocks. The use of microbial biomass as protein source for feeds, termed microbial protein, has the potential to mitigate this unsustainable practice. Biomass of purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) is a type of microbial protein with a high protein content, an outstanding protein quality and a high vitamin and pigment content. Its potential use as feed ingredient has been demonstrated, yet research beyond the nutritional value such as health or color improvements is limited or nonexistent. The PurpleRace project is firstly developing a novel production method that will reduce the current high production costs by using raceway technology. Secondly, PurpleRace will provide evidence for the benefits of PNSB as a feed ingredient, resulting in a detailed protocol for the formulation of an ornamental fish food.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: De Boeck Gudrun

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Partial nitritation/anammox can contribute to energy-positive and hence more sustainable sewage treatment. The donated resources will be used to fund research and development in this area, to build and operate bioreactors.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

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

Given the huge amounts of wastewater that are daily produced by households, industry and agriculture, efficient wastewater treatment technologies are required. The most cost effective way to treat wastewater is by exploiting the biodegradation capacity of bacteria that "eat" our polluting components. To keep these bacteria in the treatment system and ensure their continuous presence, they need to be separated from the purified water. Given their tiny size, this separation is impossible if the bacteria would not aggregate into socalled activated sludge flocs. The focus of this project is to unravel the mechanism behind this aggregation or "bioflocculation" process. The underlying hypothesis is that specific proteins (i.e., adhesins) on some bacteria, strongly and specifically bind to sugars or other proteins on other bacteria, thereby forming an almost unbreakable key-lock bond. To proof this hypothesis, we will first develop/refine a set of dedicated monitoring tools for adhesin detection and characterisation and floc strength quantification, and then perform dedicated and controlled experiments in the lab. As validation and to investigate how generic the detected adhesins are, we will screen for adhesins in full-scale conventional wastewater treatment systems. Finally, we will also screen novel wastewater treatment or water resource recovery systems for the presence of adhesins and study whether their presence can boost the performance of these systems in a targeted way.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

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

Abstract

Pretreatment is a critical step in the conversion of lignocellulose into biofuels and biochemicals. During pretreatment, the recalcitrance of lignocellulose is reduced, making the carbohydrates more accessible for enzymatic saccharification. Fungal delignification by white rot fungi is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical and physicochemical methods and is carried out in solid-state fermentation with mild reaction conditions and without the formation of microbial inhibitors. However, disadvantages of this technology include long pretreatment time, non-selective and low delignification, low enzymatic hydrolysis and required sterilisation of the raw material. This study investigates the possibility of improving and characterising the solid-state fungal pretreatment of poplar wood by Phanerochaete chrysosporium. The effects of MnSO4 and CuSO4 supplements on the delignification of sterilised wood are investigated using response surface methodology. Solid-state fermentations are carried out for 4 weeks in sterile ventilated bottles. The mechanism of the coordinated action of metal ions on lignin degradation is elucidated by relating fungal growth and ligninolytic enzyme activity to lignocellulose degradation as a function of pretreatment time. The optimised system with metal supplements is then applied to the pre-treatment of non-sterilised wood using different inoculation, nutrient and culture techniques. The fermentations are then analysed with infrared spectroscopy, in particular NIR and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, to develop rapid quantification methods for lignin. Finally, the feasibility of producing fermentable sugars from sterilised and non-sterilised poplar wood using fungal pretreatment is evaluated through techno-economic analysis. Pretreatment of the wood with 2.01 µmol CuSO4 and 0.77 µmol MnSO4 g-1 wood resulted in a 1.9-fold higher lignin degradation, a 2.3-fold higher selectivity value for delignification and a 2.9-fold higher glucose yield. This can be explained by the joint action of Mn2+ and Cu2+ ions, with Mn2+ ions stimulating manganese peroxidase production and Cu2+ prolonging it. Fungal pretreatment under non-sterile conditions using dishes without sterile aeration. resulted in a similarly high glucose yield (28.51 ± 0.28%) as the traditional method using sterilised wood, sterile aeration and spores as inoculum, while reducing the amount of wood to be sterilised by 71.2%. Infrared spectroscopy-based methods with high coefficients of determination (R_CV^2 ≥ 0.87) were developed for rapid and reliable prediction of lignin in mouldy pre-treated wood. The techno-economic study showed that using non-sterilised wood as substrate and pre-colonised wood as inoculum resulted in a 14.5% (€2.15/kg) reduction in sugar production costs compared to using sterilised wood. This cost reduction can be attributed to the lower running costs due to the reduced need for sterilisation. Although promising cost reductions were demonstrated, mould pretreatment remained more expensive than conventional chemical and physicochemical methods due to high capital costs caused by factors such as long pretreatment time and low sugar yields. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to prioritise further research focusing on screening and developing fungal strains with fast growth rates, high optimal growth temperature and selective lignin degradation capacities, as well as process optimisation and scale-up.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Fellow: Wittner Nikolett

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

SUSFERT addresses the massive usage of mineral fertilisers in EU agriculture, which are largely based on nonrenewable resources, but are required in intensive crop production for meeting demands for food and feed. SUSFERT will develop multifunctional fertilisers for phosphorus (P) and iron (Fe) supply, which will fit into existing production processes and common EU agricultural practice.

Researcher(s)

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

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Currently, sewage treatment is an energy-consuming process. However, sewage contains about ten times the required energy to treat it, and thus energy positive sewage treatment should be possible. This can be achieved by converting the conventional treatment plant to a 2-staged system; in the first stage, as much energy as possible is recovered from the sewage while in the second stage, the remaining pollutants are removed while simultaneously minimizing its energy requirement. Partial nitritation/anammox is a key technology in this energy-saving process, responsible for nitrogen removal, but there are currently several bottlenecks for its implementation in the water-line of a sewage treatment plant. This project aims to develop a smart process control that will allow this implementation and will ensure a stable and robust process. Therefore, state-of-the-art technologies will be combined with novel created technologies, such as a return sludge treatment. Additionally, the current issues about the start-up of partial nitritation/anammox will be solved by a newly developed method to seed the reactor. Finally, a conceptual retrofit is designed that will allow the easy implementation of this energy positive technology in existing treatment plants, thus lowering the threshold for companies to switch to this novel technology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Van Tendeloo Michiel

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By 2050, the global demand for nutritional protein will increase by about 50%. Yet, the boundaries of environmental sustainability are already severely trespassed in the traditional fertilizer-feed-food chain and in fish-meal based aquaculture. Around the world, researchers have taken up the quest for novel, sustainable protein foods. Recovering and recycling renewable resources from waste streams is one of the key steps to mitigate the environmental impact. In single cell protein (SCP) production, both societal needs perfectly match, as microbial technology is probably the most resource-efficient manner of producing nutritional protein. In this new era of (meta)transcriptomics and (meta)proteomics, we start to see a glimpse of all the biological features that can be steered. This provides a strong incentive to revisit SCP, for the first time with a fundamental and mechanistically driven approach, exploiting not only the potential of a microbial cell to its fullest, but also the even richer genetic pool of a microbial community. Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are nutritionally one of the most attractive types of SCP, and are furthermore metabolically the most versatile organisms on the planet. Each type of (sub)metabolism represents distinct (meta)proteomes, and hence nutritional properties such as essential amino acid profile, gastro-intestinal digestibility and nucleic acid content. Biotechnologically, the controllability of autotrophically grown PNSB communities is completely unexplored. A set of 9 tools has been distilled from a number of biological and ecological response mechanisms. In brief, it is hypothesized based on recent proteomic data that different cellular responses can drastically influence the nutritional quality. At the level of the microbial community, the objective is to synergistically make use of the full richness of the metaproteome and metatranscriptome of several PNSB and non-PNSB populations. PurpleMENU bridges environmental biotechnology to sustainable chemistry and nutrition sciences. Hereby key insights are unraveled that serve as the basis for novel bioprocesses, and perhaps for global food security and sustainability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Spanoghe Janne

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Long-term missions to Mars or the Moon require an autonomous production of crucial crew consumables such food, oxygen and water. 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 nitrification in the complete life support loop.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Long-term missions to Mars or the Moon require an autonomous production of crucial crew consumables such food, oxygen and water. 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 nitrification in the complete life support loop.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus losses from land and increasing concentrations in receiving waters or in the form of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere are environmental issues of major concern. Agriculture contributes significantly to these emissions. An integrated approach is needed to overcome this, ranging from agricultural management to consumption patterns.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Currently, sewage treatment is an energy-consuming process. However, sewage contains about ten times the required energy to treat it, and thus energy positive sewage treatment should be possible. This can be achieved by converting the conventional treatment plant to a 2-staged system; in the first stage, as much energy as possible is recovered from the sewage while in the second stage, the remaining pollutants are removed while simultaneously minimizing its energy requirement. Partial nitritation/anammox is a key technology in this energy-saving process, responsible for nitrogen removal, but there are currently several bottlenecks for its implementation in the water-line of a sewage treatment plant. This project aims to develop a smart process control that will allow this implementation and will ensure a stable and robust process.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By 2050, the global demand for nutritional protein will increase by about 50%. Yet, the boundaries of environmental sustainability are already severely trespassed in the traditional food-supply chain. Locally recovering resources from waste streams is one of the key steps to reduce environmental impact while creating import independency (e.g. soybean). In single cell protein (SCP) production, these societal needs perfectly match, as microbial technology is probably the most resource-efficient manner of producing nutritional protein. Wastewater from the food processing industry provides an excellent target for upgrading, such as brewery wastewater. The BrewPro project aims to develop a process that for the first time would allow to tune the protein quantity and quality of aerobic heterotrophic bacteria. This should enable cost-effective harvesting and post-processing, yielding a nutritionally attractive ingredient for animal feed preparations. The concept is based in a multiple stage anaerobic/aerobic bioreactor. As such, BrewPro wants to strengthen food sustainability and security through smart management of secondary resources.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Gomes De Sousa Gustavo

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Risk assessment of tap water: from a chemical screening of emerging organic micro-pollutants to risk communication. The safety of drinking water is very important, and requires careful detection of so-called micropollutants or emerging contaminants, including for instance pharmaceuticals, personal care products and pesticides. It is the objective to develop a practically feasible screening method to detect such compounds, assess their toxicity and, if necessary, manage the associated risks. This effort is interdisciplinary including also social science aspects with relation to risk perception and communication.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Over the past decades MIC or Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion was recognized as a separate corrosion form besides general corrosion, galvanic corrosion, crevice corrosion, pitting, intergranular corrosion, erosion corrosion and stress corrosion. Today MIC should be considered as an extra parameter, a biological element amplifying the abiotic electrochemical corrosion process. MIC refers to the influence of microorganisms on the kinetics of the corrosion processes of metals. This accelerated type of corrosion may not be associated with one specific organism but with a collection of bacteria co-existing at the same time at the same place forming a microbial consortium. The main type of bacteria generally associated with corrosion or iron or steel are sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB), Sulphur-oxidizing v-bacteria (SOB), iron-oxidizing/reducing bacteria (IOB/IRB), manganese oxidizing bacteria and bacteria secreting organic acids and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) or slime. The classical mechanisms for microbial influenced corrosion can be reviewed as follows: 1. Metabolic production of aggressive compounds 2. Oxygen concentration cell formation 3. Acceleration of anodic or cathodic reactions by depolarization effect 4. Hydrogen embrittlement (depolarization). Ballast water discharged by ships is generally identified as a major pathway for introducing species to new environments. The effects of the introduction of new species have in many areas of the world been devastating. The upcoming IMO ballast water management convention (2004) (maybe in force this year?) will try to call a hold to this explosive situation. Today, ships exchange their ballast water in the middle of the ocean but in the future, all ships will have to install a ballast water treatment system on board to rule out these organisms effectively. One of the possible techniques is to sterilize the ballast by means of UV light. The D-2 ballast water treatment system shall have an efficacy of; • not more than 10 viable organisms per m³ ≥50 micrometers in minimum dimension, and • not more than 10 viable organisms per milliliter < 50 micrometers in minimum dimension and ≥10 micrometers in minimum dimension. Indicator microbe concentrations shall not exceed: • toxicogenic vibrio cholerae: 1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 milliliter or 1 cfu per gram of zooplankton samples; • Escherichia coli: 250 cfu per 100 milliliter • Intestinal Enterococci: 100 cfu per 100 milliliter Bacteria are smaller than the organisms discussed above and technically are not taken into account when evaluating the efficiency of a D-2 ballast water management system. However, we think and expect, that by means of this experiment we will be able to prove that the bacteria causing MIC are killed or rendered infertile by a ballast water management systems using UV. If this is indeed the case UV ballast water treatment systems will stop or at least retard MIC. Four groups of bacteria involved in MIC will be cultivated in a standard Postgate "B" medium and diluted with seawater before being pumped through an experimental set-up consisting out of a glass tube spiraling around a UV lamp. The exposure time will be regulated by varying the transit time. The flow-through will be passed over a steel coupon, which will then be cultivated for several weeks in artificial, non-shaken conditions. Biofilm formation will be followed up. In a second similar set-up the glass tube will be coated with a titanium dioxide film. TiO2 will act as a catalyst on the UV radiation effect. If this can be established, it should be possible to reduce the exposure times and realize and economize a lot of energy in the future ballast water management systems. The "tour de force" of this experiment is that with one system, UV radiation of ballast water, two problems may be solved, MIC of ballast tanks and the carriage of invasive species via ballast water.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Lenaerts Silvia
• Co-promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Energy-positive sewage treatment requires a minimum consumption of organic carbon in the biological nitrogen removal. However, there seems to be a trade-off between energy savings and sustainability, as mainstream process conditions for shortcut nitrogen removal might favor the production of nitrous oxide (N2O), potent greenhouse gas. The N2OPNA-project aims at providing insights into N2O production pathways from partial nitritation/anammox (PNA) applied under mainstream conditions, and at formulating answers to mitigate N2O emissions. The project outcome will be beneficial for the design and operation of full-scale water treatment plants that are energy positive and have a minimum global warming footprint.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Peng Lai

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By 2050, the global demand for nutritional protein will increase by about 50%. Yet, the boundaries of environmental sustainability are already severely trespassed in the traditional fertilizer-feed-food chain and in fish-meal based aquaculture. Around the world, researchers have taken up the quest for novel, sustainable protein foods. Recovering and recycling renewable resources from waste streams is one of the key steps to mitigate the environmental impact. In single cell protein (SCP) production, both societal needs perfectly match, as microbial technology is probably the most resource-efficient manner of producing nutritional protein. In this new era of (meta)transcriptomics and (meta)proteomics, we start to see a glimpse of all the biological features that can be steered. This provides a strong incentive to revisit SCP, for the first time with a fundamental and mechanistically driven approach, exploiting not only the potential of a microbial cell to its fullest, but also the even richer genetic pool of a microbial community. Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are nutritionally one of the most attractive types of SCP, and are furthermore metabolically the most versatile organisms on the planet. Each type of (sub)metabolism represents distinct (meta)proteomes, and hence nutritional properties such as essential amino acid profile, gastro-intestinal digestibility and nucleic acid content. Biotechnologically, the controllability of autotrophically grown PNSB communities is completely unexplored. PurpleMENU bridges environmental biotechnology to sustainable chemistry and nutrition sciences. Hereby key insights are unraveled that serve as the basis for novel bioprocesses, and perhaps for global food security and sustainability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Gomes De Sousa Gustavo

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Flanders is a hotspot of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus). This is the result of intensive food production, and nutrient losses along this fertilizer to food conversion chain. To recover lost nutrients, conversion into microbial protein (single cell protein) is a sustainably appealing scenario. Purple bacteria represent an interesting, yet underexplored source for microbial protein production and consumption. The potential of purple bacteria is derived from their metabolism as photoheterotrophs. Firstly, they have a near perfect organic carbon immobilization efficiency in comparison with other heterotrophs, decreasing greatly the carbon input needs. Secondly, purple bacteria also have a high growth rate with respect to other phototrophs, leading to a desirable low land usage footprint. Thirdly, their unique potential to grow on infra-red wavelengths allows a selectivity tool during cultivation. The research objective of this project is to acquire insights into the biotechnological production of purple bacteria in open communities on fermented wastewater from the potato processing industry. It is targeted to demonstrate that biomass enriched in purple bacteria can serve as an excellent feed ingredient for aquaculture.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Fellow: Alloul Abbas

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The MicroNOD project aims to overcome key technological and non-technological barriers to establish an innovative sustainable value chain that upgrades inorganic nutrients from safe industrial side streams to a high-quality organic fertilizer for professional growers as well as for the retail sector. Nutrients will be immobilized microbially through aerobic and phototrophic mechanisms, with a strong focus on a technological leap in knowledge that leads to cost efficiency, minimum input of fresh water, fossil-based energy and non-recovered materials. The processing of the microbiota to organic fertilizer in low-impact crop substrates is directed to maximally align the nutrient release from the fertilizers with the plants needs. MicroNOD targets systemic innovation through strong interaction with all stakeholders throughout society. It is intended to stimulate demand and public acceptance of the recovered bioproduct, create economic value for all business activities along this innovative value chain, set up a quality assurance system, meet product legislation and finally quantify sustainability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel. This study focusses on the removal of harmful ammonium from polluted water by converting it to harmless nitrogen gas, which is released to the atmosphere. Opposed to the established mesophilic temperature conditions, biotechnology at thermophilic temperatures is hypothesized to have several advantages: higher stability, faster reactions, lower sludge production and better hygienization.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Lenaerts Silvia
• Fellow: Vlaeminck Siegfried

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project