Project: Hybrid Biofilm Systems Enhanced with Nanostructured Materials for Micropollutant Biodegradation (WP2)
Host institution: PURE
Supervisor(s): Nelis De Rouck, Raf Dewil (PhD promoter)
Objectives: To innovate and incorporate a nanostructured modified support material within existing biofilm-based wastewater treatment processes to improve the degradation of micropollutants and dissolved organic matter.
DC10 aims to elevate the micropollutant biodegradation capabilities of hybrid biofilm systems by introducing nanostructured materials into the design of moving bed biofilm reactors, coupled with dissolved air flotation and advanced oxidation processes. This research will explore how these nano-modifications affect biofilm formation and overall system performance. DC10 will also examine the role of specific cations in augmenting the biodegradation process. Extensive lab-testing will be conducted to determine the optimal design parameters, followed by real-world application within decentralized wastewater systems. The goal is to refine and scale the technology, ensuring compatibility with existing treatment infrastructures and enhancing the efficiency of contaminant removal.
Expected results: Expected Results: Enhanced degradation of micropollutants and dissolved organic matter and improved biofilm formation through nanomodification of support materia
Planned secondments:
- KU Leuven (Sup.: R. Dewil): M12-15 (4 months): Labscale assessment nanoparticle influence on microbial communities.
- UGL (Sup.: W. Peveler): M29-31 (3 months): Insights in biosensor development and measuring toxicity via chemical sensing arrays.
Enrolment in Doctoral degree: KUL Arenberg Doctoral School of Science, Engineering and Technology (BE)
