Project Overview
In a world increasingly plagued by micropollutants, including pesticides and pharmaceuticals, the quest for effective water purification remains paramount. Micropollutants persist and pose significant threats due to their toxic and persistent nature. Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) has been a staple in water purification since the 1980s, utilizing fixed-bed adsorption columns. Yet, GAC’s effectiveness, particularly for polar and water-soluble compounds, varies, highlighting the need for innovative solutions.
Moving bed systems present a promising advancement, offering superior efficiency over fixed beds. These systems continuously introduce carbon, which mitigates instantaneous breakthroughs and reduces the need for energy-intensive regeneration. This project delved into optimizing the performance of Phenolic Resin Carbons (PRCs) through moving bed principles and in-situ regeneration.
Objectives
- Develop a Process Model for PRCs:
- Designed a model incorporating moving bed principles and in-situ steam regeneration of PRCs. This model aims to optimize carbon utilization and regeneration efficiency.
- Create a Process Flow Diagram:
- Developed a detailed diagram accounting for condensate treatment, steam requirements, and carbon recycling rates to ensure effective system operation.
- Conduct Economic Analysis:
- Performed a financial analysis to assess the viability and cost-effectiveness of the proposed process for drinking water treatment.
- Perform Lifecycle Assessment:
- Evaluated the environmental impact of the proposed intensified system compared to traditional carbon filters, using openLCA software.
Key Contributions
- Innovative Adsorptive Technology:
- Pioneered research into advanced adsorption techniques with promising applications in wastewater treatment, focusing on in-situ and continuous regeneration of PRCs.
- Comprehensive Analysis:
- Executed a thorough literature review, developed mathematical models using MATLAB, and conducted financial and environmental assessments to support the proposed process.
- Adaptation to COVID-19:
- Adapted the research focus during the pandemic to address pressing challenges in wastewater treatment, demonstrating resilience and innovation.
- Collaborative Expertise:
- Worked closely with a distinguished advisory team, including Jan Hofman and Steve Tennison, ensuring high-quality research and practical relevance.
This project not only advances the field of water treatment through innovative adsorption technologies but also provides actionable insights for optimizing water purification processes, highlighting the importance of sustainable and effective methods in addressing global water challenges.