Project: Application of conductive nanomaterials for enhanced biodegradation in anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) (WP2)
Host institution: TU Delft
Supervisor(s): Jules van Lier, Henri Spanjers (PhD promoters)
Objectives: To better understand the role of various conductive nanomaterials in reducing toxicity in AnMBR treating biodegradable toxic compounds and to assess the utilization of different conductive nanomaterials in a lab-scale anaerobic membrane bioreactor for the treatment of recalcitrant organic compounds.
DC9 will investigate various NMs with high electrical conductivity at the nanoscale, such as iron oxides, graphene, etc (based on the efficacy, durability, market availability, and the ease of use). DC9 will explore the adsorptive capacity of selected NMs for the target recalcitrant, toxic compounds, maintaining a non-toxic concentration in the bulk of the liquid. For this purpose, adsorption and desorption reaction kinetics will be studied. Selection and testing of various combinations of nanoparticles with different adsorptive and conductive capacities, opting for synergistic effects on the anaerobic digestion of recalcitrant compounds. DC9 will optimize the utilization of NMs in the treatment of CECs in continuous-flow anaerobic membrane bioreactors, including a study of the fate of the nanoparticles during long term operation of the reactor.
Expected results: Technology and approach to establish the optimal operational conditions for enhanced anaerobic biodegradation of recalcitrant organic compounds by the application of conductive nanoparticles.
Planned secondments:
- UNISA (Sup.: L. Rizzo): M12-15 (4 months): Understanding the importance of wastewater origin and the impact of electrochemical treatment on pollutant degradation.
- BACO (Sup.:A.M. Samani Majd): M20-23 (4 months): Fundamental principles and guidelines for accurate (eco)-toxicity assessment.
Enrolment in Doctoral degree: TUDelft Graduate School program
