The LIFE ELEKTRA project has achieved a significant milestone with the publication of its first scientific paper, titled “Towards a zero liquid discharge process from brine treatment: Water recovery, nitrate electrochemical elimination and potential valorization of hydrogen and salts,” in the prestigious journal Science of the Total Environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This study presents an innovative approach to treating brines from electrodialysis reversal water treatment plants, aiming to minimize environmental impact through a zero liquid discharge (ZLD) process. The research outlines a comprehensive treatment train that includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Ion-exchange equilibrium for brine softening or demineralization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Reverse osmosis to recover up to 75% of suitable water and concentrate nitrates for efficient electrochemical reduction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Electrochemical reduction of nitrates using a Bi\/Sn cathode, achieving a 60% reduction of initial nitrate to nitrogen gas, and producing hydrogen as a valuable by-product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Valorisation of by-products, such as the recovery of insoluble salts like calcium carbonate and the reuse of saline solutions for resin regeneration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The process demonstrated a 98% softening efficiency and effectively reduced nitrate concentrations, contributing to sustainable water management and resource recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n