Due to the finite nature of fossil resources and the challenges of centralised wastewater treatment, decentralised nutrient recovery is becoming increasingly important. In particular, the efficient removal of micropollutants, for example in hospital urine, is a key focus.
Planned work
The development and integration of demonstrators for post-treatment using diamond electrolysis and photocatalysis is being trialled. Measurement campaigns are evaluating the nitrogen balance, sterility, elimination of trace substances and operating efficiency. Upscaling for commercial applications is planned.
The project aims to offer sustainable, energy-efficient alternatives to existing processes and promote the reuse of nutrients.
The project aims to simplify the processing of separately collected human urine into a safe and high-quality fertiliser. This is to be achieved using a biological filtration process (C.R.O.P.®) with subsequent removal of pathogens and organic micropollutants by means of physicochemical processes such as diamond electrolysis or photocatalytic oxidation. The method should not require any consumables that cause residues, be low-maintenance and versatile.
The project is developing a process for processing human urine into a safe and high-quality fertiliser. The focus is on the use of a biological filtration process (C.R.O.P.®) for the nitrification of urine. Pathogens and micropollutants such as drug residues are then removed using physicochemical processes such as diamond electrolysis and photocatalytic oxidation. The aim is an environmentally friendly method that does not require any consumables or chemicals.
The technology developed is intended to be energy-efficient, low-maintenance and versatile, e.g. for treating hospital urine or in greenhouse systems. The project thus addresses the challenges of centralised wastewater systems, which are characterised by their inflexibility and high energy requirements. It responds to the finite nature of raw materials such as phosphate and the increasing relevance of micropollutants in wastewater.
Demonstrators for the post-treatment processes are developed and tested in conjunction with the C.R.O.P.® filters. Comprehensive measurements are carried out to evaluate the nitrogen balance, sterility and the removal of pollutants. The technology is also being tested for scalability and practicality.
The project is a contribution to decentralised nutrient recovery and a sustainable circular economy. It promises energy and resource savings compared to conventional methods. At the same time, compliance with high environmental and hygiene standards is guaranteed.
DLR German Aerospace Centre
Institute of Aerospace Medicine
Gravitational biology
Linder height
51147 Cologne
Synantik GmbH - Industrial measurement and control technology
Suhler Street 11
99885 Ohrdruf
Diaccon GmbH
Dr Mack-Strasse 81
D-90762 Fürth
Finizio GmbH
Ostend Heights 70
D-16225 Eberswalde
Goldeimer gGmbH
Villa Viva Hamburg
Schultzweg 4
D-20097 Hamburg
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