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Research results in major new innovation for the water industry

September 23rd, 2009

(PhysOrg.com) -- A partnership between Cranfield and United Utilities (UU) has resulted in the development of a breakthrough technology process for the treatment of sewage sludge, which not only creates significant cost savings but will also help to meet emissions reduction targets.

The discovery of the Inverted Phase Fermentation (IPF) process has proven to be a real breakthrough for the treatment of a waste stream with high water content such as sewage sludge. IPF can significantly concentrate the sludge allowing the digestion process to be intensified with very simple equipment and little extra energy.

In addition to the sludge thickening effect, IPF also provides improved pathogen destruction and produces a liquid with a high Volatile Fatty Acid content that can be used in other industrial applications.

Dr. Son Le, UU Technology Development Manager, said: "Apart from the huge benefits to be expected from a major new process, the Company standing in the industry has been enhanced with its key stakeholders becoming more committed to innovation than ever. The strength of the IPF data from this project allowed UU to secure grant funding from the Carbon Trust to build a demonstration plant for the new process."

The process is the result of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the two organisations. KTP projects enable organisations to benefit from access to the University knowledge base through a KTP Associate working at postgraduate level on some of the most challenging issues in industry. The KTP Associate, Ruyi Hu, was based in-company working to a brief specified by United Utilities. As a result of the project, the company has now employed Ruyi to work on the Carbon Trust follow-on project.

Dr Sean Tyrrel, Senior Lecturer at Cranfield University, said: "The partnership has been very productive, resulting in the development of an innovative technology that significantly enhances the recovery of valuable resources from waste. This project has clearly demonstrated the impact that can be achieved from investment in collaboration between industry and academia."

The IPF process is now patented.

Provided by Cranfield University

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