Recent Progress at UNSW Centre for Transformational Environmental Technologies (CTET)
June 2024 Edition by Ainur Dyussenova
Research updates
Innovative Advanced Oxidation Processes and brackish water desalination technologies
The Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) team at CTET has developed a groundbreaking suspension catalytic ozonation reactor for superior wastewater treatment. Compared to traditional fixed-bed reactors, this innovative design shows significantly enhanced efficiency in removing surface-active organic compounds. The reactor's success lies in improved ozone transfer rates and optimized catalyst utilization.
"Our suspension catalytic ozonation reactor not only enhances pollutant removal efficiency but also offers scalability, cost-effectiveness, and crucial for industrial applications, marking a significant advancement in wastewater technology," remarked CTET researcher Dr Yuting Yuan. Ongoing efforts include developing tailored catalysts to further optimize the process, ensuring efficient and economical solutions.
Figure 1. Operating principles of anodic oxidation (left) and Electro-Fenton (E-Fenton) reactors.
Additionally, CTET is collaborating with Jiangsu Environmental Protection Corporation on the development and optimization of E-Fenton processes for treating electroplating wastewaters. Early results are promising with rapid removal of 50% of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nickel. By optimizing reactor design, electrode materials, and catalyst selection, CTET aims to elevate system efficiency and reduce operational costs on an industrial scale.
Figure 2. Operating principles of anodic oxidation (left) and Electro-Fenton (E-Fenton) reactors.
Publications
In a recent publication from CTET, groundbreaking research has highlighted significant advancements in water treatment technology. The study, titled “Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Suspension-Type Reactors for Heterogeneous Catalytic Ozonation,” published in the esteemed journal Water Research, has highlighted the superior performance of suspension-type reactors over traditional fixed-bed reactors in catalytic ozonation processes.
Key findings described in this publication include:
- Substantially higher performance of suspension catalyst ozone reactor than the widely used fixed bed reactor.
- O3 interphase transfer rate was much higher in the suspension reactor than in the fixed bed reactor.
- The higher dissolved ozone concentration in the suspension reactor yields more effective degradation of target species.
- Target species degradation was also influenced by catalyst surface site accessibility.
- A kinetic model was developed that satisfactorily described the results obtained.
This research marks a crucial milestone in advancing environmental technology, offering practical insights into the application of suspension reactors for the efficient removal of organic pollutants from water. With implications for industrial-scale water treatment facilities, these findings pave the way for future innovations aimed at addressing global challenges in water quality management.
Stay updated on the latest breakthroughs in water treatment technology with CTET.
External communication
Global Collaboration in Environmental Technology Expands: CTET's Recent Ventures in China
During a recent visit to China, Prof. David Waite, Executive Chairman of CTET, alongside Dr. Yuan Wang, General Manager, engaged with multiple industrial and governmental partners across various cities, forging new pathways for international cooperation in environmental technology.
On 16th May, the CTET team visited Shandong Shuifa High-Tech Development Group Co., Ltd. Both parties are interested in developing innovative methods treating the seasonal high COD (could be higher than 10,000ppm) garlic wastewaters.
On 23rd May, Hu Yidong, the President of Wuxi Industry and Innovation Research Institute (WIIRI) visited CTET. The discussions centered on the establishment of the UNSW-Wuxi Technology Commercialisation Centre, paving the way for future industrialization of UNSW advanced technologies in the Wuxi area.
On 24th May, Prof. David Waite and his team visited the School of Environment and Ecology of Jiangnang University to explore opportunities for student development and multidimensional scientific cooperation, emphasizing mentorship and joint research in new materials and environmental technologies.
Prof. Zhang Changyong from the Environmental Science and Engineering College of the University of Science and Technology of China led research team members and undergraduate students on a visit CTET on 24th May. During the visit, detailed presentations were provided on CTET's research projects, focusing on advanced oxidation water treatment technologies and MCDI technology. This visit provided valuable learning opportunities for USTC's research team and undergraduate students.
During a visit to Jiangsu Environmental Protection Corporation on 28th May, the CTET team engaged in in-depth discussion around the treatment technologies for electroplating wastewaters. On the same day, the CTET team also visited Everbright Water Group in Nanjing and exchanged information on the research areas of both parties.
After the initial visit in Jinan by the CTET team, the investment manager of Shandong Shuifa High-tech group, Liu Xiaoqing and his team visited CTET on 31st May. Discussions with Shandong Shuifa High-Tech Group focused on solutions for the treatment of challenging industrial wastewaters. Prof. David Waite expressed optimism about these collaborations, emphasizing the importance to advance global environmental goals through technological innovation and strategic partnerships.
This series of meetings underscores CTET's commitment to driving international cooperation in environmental technology, positioning itself at the forefront of global efforts towards sustainable development.
