The use of oxidative and electrolytic processes for water treatment is one of the main fields of research of Fraunhofer IGB. We work on the improvement of existing processes such as adsorption, filtration, flocculation/precipitation, electrodialysis, homogenization and disinfection as well as on new approaches in process and unit operations. Together with industrial partners, new concepts and technologies are being developed at Fraunhofer IGB also to industrial scale. Water treatment and the circulation of process water can thus be carried out economically and sustainably.
Advantages
With oxidative and electrolytic processes, it is possible to oxidize dissolved contaminants or pollutants that are difficult to break down. In general, electrolytic and oxidative processes have the following advantages:
- Complete mineralization of pollutants possible
- Staff savings and increased reliability
- No increase in salinity, which enables recirculation
- No disinfection by-products – in particular no halogenated compounds
- Less handling of hazardous chemical agents
- Little or no sludge formed
- Hygienic outflow water
- Robust process – discharge criteria can be met reliably
- Available quickly – standby operation possible
- Suitable for varying quantities and qualities of wastewater
Applications
At present the focus is on industry-oriented studies of landfill leachate and textile effluents. The aim here is to meet the discharge criteria of the communal treatment plants in a cost-effective way. In other projects we have developed new technical solutions for UV treatment and anodic oxidation together with our industrial partners. These projects aim to make the solutions ready for market launch.
Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB
