Research

The sustainable recovery of phosphorus from wastewater streams and sewage sludge is a key component of modern wastewater treatment and circular economy practices. Phosphorus is an essential yet limited resource, and its recovery not only contributes to resource conservation but also reduces environmental impacts such as eutrophication. As part of this project, a feasibility study on phosphorus recovery at the Linz wastewater treatment plant is being conducted to evaluate the technical, economic, and ecological feasibility of suitable technologies. The analysis of the initial situation includes a detailed examination of the composition and properties of wastewater streams and sewage sludge based on data provided by Linz AG. Additionally, the existing infrastructure and current processes of the treatment plant are assessed to identify potential interfaces for the integration of recovery technologies. In the next step, various phosphorus recovery technologies are evaluated and compared in terms of their efficiency, costs, feasibility, and environmental compatibility. Publicly available data, as well as data provided by Linz AG, are utilized to ensure a realistic assessment of the costs and potential of the technologies. Based on the findings, an action plan will be developed, outlining scenarios for the implementation of suitable technologies. These scenarios take into account both technical and economic conditions and provide a decision-making basis for future implementation. The results of the study will be summarized in a detailed report, which will serve as the foundation for sustainable and resource-efficient phosphorus recovery at the Linz wastewater treatment plant. This project makes an important contribution to the circular economy and to meeting legal requirements for phosphorus recovery.

Development of a method for minimally invasive and millimetre-precise milling of tree pits (min. 1200 mm diameter) in existing asphalt and concrete surfaces using core drilling equipment, excavation of planting pits (min. 1500 mm deep) in different soil types, quick and easy temporary securing of planting pits, efficient and fast soil loosening. Development of a method for creating aeration holes (min. 100-160 mm diameter) including soil loosening (min. 1200 mm depth) and identification of suitable filling and sealing materials for the creation of surfaces that comply with ÖNORM B 1600. Development of a method for the minimally invasive creation of permanent and temporary irrigation solutions. Creation of microtrenching milling for the rapid laying of supply lines, identification of suitable irrigation controls, sensors and pipes. Development of a new, optimised and precisely fitting tree surround including root ball support that can be manufactured cost-effectively and in series. Development of a modular tree impact protection system. Development of a suitable biotech filter substrate that enables the discharge of surface water in accordance with ÖNORM B2506-3 despite low substrate volume and provides all necessary filter performance in the long term.

This COMET project addresses urgent environmental challenges caused by increased emission of known and unknown substances, materials, and pathogenic organisms into aquatic environments due to anthropogenic activities. As we face future ecological and economic issues transforming into a sustainable circular economy, safeguarding water resources becomes crucial. Therefore, the motivation for this project is to develop responsive, anticipatory, and data-driven research methodologies to assess environmental risks and ensure water safety through trustworthy technology. Our interdisciplinary scientific team combines expertise from the fields of chemistry, plastics -research, microbiology, water ecology, and data science. We will focus on research and development in water analysis, pollutant detection and removal, plastic particle tracking, and biomonitoring. The developed analytical toolbox will include advanced analytical techniques, including targeted and non-targeted chemical analyses using chromatography combined with (high resolution) mass spectrometry, single-particle inductively coupled plasma time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the characterization of microplastic particles, and DNA-based techniques for microbial classification. We will use the methods and processes developed in this COMET project to assess riverbank filtration in the context of drinking water treatment, and to investigate how renaturation efforts influence the aquatic ecosystem and the associated drinking water production. The data generated will merge into a water monitoring tool in our data science hub. The main results expected of the COMET-Project include the development of innovative technologies and methodologies for comprehensive water quality monitoring. This encompasses improved detection methods for pollutants and trace substances, advanced bio-monitoring techniques, and the implementation of AI-driven data analysis systems. These outcomes will lead to a more thorough understanding of environmental emissions, enabling more effective strategies for protecting aquatic environments and water-related infrastructure. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute significantly to securing water resources and supply, thereby supporting the transition to a sustainable circular economy.