In line with environmental regulations, a newly developed
sensor technology has been designed, developed and evaluated
for on-line monitoring of metal-containing waste streams.
Conventional waste treatment technologies may become inefficient,
as they need to keep pace with the ever-decreasing concentration
limits (allowed by regulations) of pollutants found in industrial
effluents. Thereby, a new, integrated approach would be more
beneficial than the emission reduction through "end-of-pipe"
treatment methodologies.
Answering this need, the MEWAPREV project focused on developing
on-line integrated processes for the prevention of metal waste
from industrial effluents.
The project work involved the use of fully controlled (lab-on-chip)
units - including Supported Liquid Membranes (SLM) and Modified
Electrodialysis (MED) in combination with 3-dimensional cathode
cells. Within this context, researchers designed an innovative
isotachophoresis (ITP) injector geometry that allows variable
volume sample injections to be reliably and simply performed.
The prototype units were made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
material and fabricated with the aid of a rapid direct micromachining
technique.
These microdevices were tested in terms of their suitability
for on-line monitoring, using a specially designed fluid handling
system that provides automatic delivery of samples and electrolytes.
On the basis of these assessment results, an industrial MEWAPREV
monitoring system was developed for on-line analysis of aqueous
sample streams. The system is fully controlled through suitably
developed software program.
Additionally, novel electrolyte systems were also designed
for the separation of numerous metal ions, such as - Ca, Mg,
Mn, Cr, Co, Fe, Ni, Zn and Cu. These systems may complement
the analysis of provided metal waste streams. Apart from the
metal ions found in industrial waste streams, the sensor technology
can be used for the analysis of other ionic species from various
industries.
The prototype has already been subjected to a joint patent
application with Siemens. Collaborations are sought with potential
partners interested in on-line process control - as well as
chemical industries engaged in measuring concentrations of
ionic species found in aqueous streams.
For further information, contact -
Peter Fielden
Professor of Analytical Science
UMIST
Tel: Tel: +44 (0) 161 200 4889
Fax: +44 (0) 161 200 4911
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://dias.umist.ac.uk/PRF/index.htm
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