EULe

Given the finite nature of fossil resources and the challenges associated with centralized wastewater treatment, decentralized nutrient recovery is gaining importance. A key focus is the efficient removal of micropollutants, such as those found in hospital urine.

Planned Activities

The project involves testing the development and integration of demonstration units for post-treatment using diamond electrolysis and photocatalysis. Measurement campaigns will evaluate the nitrogen balance, pathogen elimination, removal of trace substances, and operational efficiency. Plans are in place to scale up the technology for commercial applications.

The project aims to provide sustainable, energy-efficient alternatives to existing processes and to promote nutrient reuse.

The project aims to simplify the processing of separately collected human urine into a safe, high-quality fertilizer. This is to be achieved through a biological filtration process (C.R.O.P.®), followed by the removal of pathogens and organic micropollutants using physicochemical methods such as diamond electrolysis or photocatalytic oxidation. The method is designed to operate without consumables that generate waste, require minimal maintenance, and offer versatile application.

The project is developing a process to treat human urine and convert it into a safe, high-quality fertilizer. The focus is on using a biological filtration method (C.R.O.P.®) to nitrify the urine. Subsequently, pathogens and micropollutants—such as pharmaceutical residues—are removed using physicochemical processes like diamond electrolysis and photocatalytic oxidation. The goal is to create an environmentally friendly method that requires no consumables or chemicals.

The technology being developed is designed to be energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and versatile—suitable, for example, for treating urine from hospitals or for use in greenhouse systems. In doing so, the project addresses the challenges associated with centralized wastewater systems, which are characterized by inflexibility and high energy consumption. It responds to the finite nature of raw materials like phosphate and the growing concern regarding micropollutants in wastewater.

Demonstrators for the post-treatment processes are being developed and tested in conjunction with the C.R.O.P.® filters. Comprehensive measurements are being conducted to evaluate the nitrogen balance, pathogen elimination, and pollutant removal. The technology is also being assessed for scalability and practical applicability.

The project contributes to decentralized nutrient recovery and a sustainable circular economy. It promises energy and resource savings compared to conventional methods while ensuring compliance with high environmental and hygiene standards.