University of Coimbra: using natural flocculants from waste eucalyptus wood to treat wastewater

University of Coimbra
Type of organisation or company
Country
Portugal
City
Coimbra
Language for original content
Key Area
Scope
Submitted by
Technopolis Group
Ongoing
Yes
Description

A team of researchers from the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC) has developed an innovative wastewater treatment technique using natural flocculants extracted from waste eucalyptus wood.

Although flocculation is a widely used step in the treatment of effluents in wastewater treatment plants, the conventional materials used to promote flocculation are derived from fossil fuels, and therefore are not biodegradable. Researching new, naturally occurring flocculants, especially those based on natural by-products, has therefore become essential with a view to developing more environmentally-friendly approaches.

Main results
  • Development of alternatives to fossil-origin flocculants
  • Contribution to innovative techniques for wastewater recovery