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The NANOGOM Democase is breaking new ground in water desalination and lithium recovery with cutting-edge filtration technologies. Using a hybrid NF-RO filtration system, the project improves mineral content in desalinated brackish water and pioneers cost-effective methods for recovering lithium from spent batteries. Key innovations include modifying hollow fiber membranes with carbon-based materials like graphene oxides and carbon nanotubes, enhancing rejection rates for magnesium (Mg2+) and lithium (Li+). Process modeling shows the scalability and competitiveness of this approach compared to current technologies. With promising results in ion rejection, NANOGOM is paving the way for sustainable and economically viable solutions with significant industrial impact.

In this project, membranes were explored for the post-treatment of sugar product streams from Recell’s Chem process, which converts tertiary cellulose in waste streams into valuable glucose through enzymatic hydrolysis. Producing high-quality, standardized glucose is key to building a robust value chain and using renewable sugars as feedstock for bio-based chemicals in tomorrow’s industry. Membrane processes, with their low energy needs, scalability, and alignment with sustainability goals like carbon circularity and zero liquid discharge, are emerging as a “natural” solution for separations in lignocellulosic biorefineries. While the results were promising, some challenges remain, and further research is needed. Recell and VITO are already pursuing new funding opportunities to continue building on the success of the InnoMem project.

We are excited to present the results of the Innomem project, where collaborative research has pushed forward developments in membrane technology and electrodialysis for carbon capture! In this project, Ucaneo, alongside RWTH Aachen University, EMI Twente, and the University of Twente, focused on improving solutions for carbon capture using advanced membrane and electrodialysis technologies. This work is a step toward more sustainable methods of reducing CO2 emissions and protecting our environment. Watch the video below to see how this open call has led to tangible progress in carbon capture research, driving us closer to a greener future. A big thanks to all the partners and contributors for their commitment and expertise! Together, we are making strides toward innovative and sustainable solutions.

A-membranes, backed by INNOMEM Project partner VITO, is rewriting the playbook on ceramic membrane grafting. Say goodbye to outdated methods! A-membranes’ cutting-edge industrial process promises high MRL grafting with a twist – their innovative approach diverges significantly from traditional benchmarks. But that’s not all! We’re shaking up the QC game too. While VITO’s off-line testing methods may be old news, A-membranes is leading the charge with groundbreaking non-destructive in-line QC procedures. Join us on this thrilling journey as we redefine production quality standards and set new benchmarks for the industry!

ISGREEN, in partnership with CNR-ITM, is harnessing cutting-edge membrane technology to extract phycocyanin from Spirulina microalgae. This groundbreaking process not only ensures the extraction of ultra-pure phycocyanin but also eliminates any risk of external contamination. Why is this exciting? • Eco-Friendly: Reduces waste biomass and chemical usage. • Efficient: Cuts down extraction times and costs. • Safe: Enhances workplace safety. • Sustainable: Recovers and reuses almost all the water, either for Spirulina growth or as a biostimulant for crops. Thanks to this innovative project, ISGREEN is set to become a key player in producing bioactive, nature-based compounds from Spirulina.

As part of the Innomem project, the University of Twente and RWTH Aachen University partnered to showcase Covestro's new PRIOLON polymer for membrane production. PRIOLON is an eco-friendly polymer, emitting up to 50% less CO2 in its lifecycle compared to similar polymers. In this project, we spun, tested, and characterized various hollow fiber membranes.

This captivating video dives into the innovative work carried out under the open calls for Flexiramics, a company specializing in flexible ceramic materials. Led by the University of Twente (Twente membranes), EMI Twente BV, and Fraunhofer IKTS, this democase delves into material analysis and explores potential modifications, pushing the boundaries of ceramic technology.

The main objective of this Democase is to develop the flowsheet of a membrane-based CO2 capture plant able to achieve 90% CO2 recovery and 90% CO2 purity in the post-combustion stream of an SMR plant. The challenge is that the developed solution must be competitive, both technically and economically, against state-of-the-art solutions (for instance, amines). The proposed solution should be able to be implemented in SR plants that use not only methane as feedstock, but also biomethane, biogas and bioethanol with relatively small modifications. With the support of a positive techno-economic analysis, CO2 capture plants based on membrane technologies will be appealing to different end users and will boost the implementation of membranes as a solution for post-combustion CO2capture.

We're thrilled to share the progress of the Innomem - IMCEPO project, a collaborative effort between EMI Twente and Parker. Together, we've been pioneering new strategies for potting hollow fibers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in membrane engineering. In this video, you'll get an inside look at our innovative approach and the cutting-edge techniques we've used to enhance efficiency and performance. This collaboration exemplifies the power of combining expertise to solve complex challenges and drive technological advancements.

Tullia Zucca's pioneering in plasma system prototyping meets its perfect match with INNOMEM Project 's OITB expertise in membranes and membrane reactors! Collaborating with specialists like TECNALIA Research & Innovation and Eindhoven University of Technology, we're turbocharging Zucca's hydrogen production from ammonia decomposition project. Membranes achieving over 99% purity and warm plasma's game-changing capabilities are just the beginning of this dynamic partnership's potential!

With the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions, the process of upgrading biogas presents new opportunities. However, the challenge lies in the cost-effectiveness of production. Innovative membrane technology is reshaping the landscape, optimizing efficiency and making biogas a viable alternative to natural gas.

Curious about membrane applications in the automotive industry? Check out this project by the University of Twente and EMI Twente for Kayser Automotive Systems. The Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) needs humidifiers to keep fuel cell membranes from drying out. In this project a model is built to optimize humidifier parameters and different membranes are tested. Based on the results, Kayser Automotive Systems will further develop a prototype.

With growing demands to reduce water usage and recycle wastewater, the EU’s “Zero Pollution Action Plan” will introduce new rules on water pollution. A key goal is to cut harmful emissions and improve urban wastewater treatment. Membrane technology will be crucial in this effort. In the INNOMEM project “CaBeMem”, the University of Twente and Pentair-X-Flow collaborated to test and benchmark innovative X-Flow membranes for removing various harmful substances. Discover more by watching this video.

Excited to share a glimpse of our latest achievements within the Innomem project, where Syensqo collaborated with top-tier partners: EMI Twente, Twente membranes, Me-Sep, Polymen, and Ciaotech - PNO Group. In this project, we've made significant strides in the upscaling of Thin-Film Composite (TFC) hollow fiber membranes, transitioning from static dipcoating to continuous coating. Our innovative approach leverages a novel and unique hollow fiber support provided by Syensqo, setting new benchmarks in membrane technology. Additionally, Ciaotech played a crucial role by conducting an in-depth market analysis, helping us align our technological advancements with market needs.