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Project title

Integrated research programme into membrane separation process technology

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)

Lead Applicant

Noel Duffy

Project Abstract

Adoption of membrane separation processes such as reverse osmosis nano- ultra- and micro-filtration along with pervaporation has the potential to reduce energy and material consumption in Irish industry saving money and protecting the environment. It is proposed to build on the existing CIT expertise in pervaporation and membrane filtration of waste streams in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals industry in an integrated set of three research areas. The third area will be selected after an assessment of the potential applications in Irish industry. Since transfer of the technological advances into industry is essential to achieve the desired environmental benefits a national network will be established meeting quarterly to exchange experience and identify new opportunities. Achieving best international practice will be accomplished by establishing linkages with EU centres of excellence in Germany and Austria in the first instance. The work will be conducted by three post-graduates and a short-term researcher under the supervision of three permanent staff in the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering at Cork Institute of Technology. These three staff members have experience of project management research in the individual areas and industrial experience from previously successful research projects and having worked in industry.

Grant Approved

�285,020.00

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Waste and Resources Management

Start Date

01/02/2006

Initial Projected Completion Date

19/04/2010