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Smart Water Solutions

Smart Water Solutions

By Hakim El Fadil

Discussions on science, technology and investment happening in the water industry. Hakim is a water tech researcher at KU Leuven with 8 years of industrial water expertise gained at The Dow Chemical Company and DuPont.
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#45 - Prof. Jeffrey McCutcheon

Smart Water SolutionsApr 28, 2022

00:00
01:54:36
#82 - Seth B. Darling: Argonne National Laboratory

#82 - Seth B. Darling: Argonne National Laboratory

In this podcast episode, Rhea and I host Seth B. Darling, Argonne's Chief Science and Technology Officer, discussing his journey from chemistry to the water sciences, with a special focus on block copolymers. The conversation zeroes in on the critical nexus between water and energy, emphasizing the urgent of water reuse and the untapped potential of wastewater as a source for nutrients and rare earth elements. Darling's insights highlighted the necessity for scientific research to be guided towards real-world applicability, stressing on life cycle analysis to ensure the viability and sustainability of water technologies. Key discussions include advancing membrane technologies to resist fouling and deploying sensors for enhanced water treatment. The episode advocates for research directed at scalable and sustainable solutions, aiming to catalyze action towards more effective water resource management.

Mar 28, 202457:52
#81 - Maxime Therrillion: OSMOSUN

#81 - Maxime Therrillion: OSMOSUN

In this episode, we welcomed Maxime Therrillion, Head of Business Development at OSMOSUN, to discuss how they integrate solar energy with reverse osmosis for sustainable water desalination. Maxime shared his journey into the water sector, driven by the goal of addressing vital water needs. OSMOSUN, established in 2014, focuses on combating water scarcity without contributing to climate change.

Maxime explained their technology, which enables reverse osmosis systems to run on solar power without needing batteries or grid connections. This approach not only offers a cost-effective solution but also reduces environmental impact. The discussion covered adapting to different geographies, the significance of water quality, and OSMOSUN's financial models that support global deployment.

A key story shared was their project in Cape Verde, demonstrating the technology's impact on agriculture by providing fresh water for irrigation, thus tackling both climate and social challenges. This episode is essential for those interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and water solutions.

Mar 21, 202436:22
#80 - Julie Bliss Mullen: Aclarity

#80 - Julie Bliss Mullen: Aclarity

In this intriguing episode, Julie Bliss, CEO and co-founder of Aclarity, narrates her transformative journey from an academic researcher to an innovative entrepreneur, tackling the global issue of PFAS contamination. PFAS, short for "forever chemicals," are used in everyday items like non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing. These chemicals can seep into water sources, not breaking down and leading to health risks such as cancer and immune system damage. Her discovery during an EPA internship ignited a passion to solve the pressing problem of "forever chemicals" in our environment. Developing a patented electrochemical oxidation technique, Julie's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and the drive to make a significant impact on public health and safety. Her dedication to eliminating PFAS exposure compels us to consider the broader implications of environmental contaminants and the power of scientific entrepreneurship to address them. Tune into this episode to explore how does Aclarity’s electrochemical oxidation technology work in treating PFAS contamination in water, and what sets it apart as a unique and effective solution?

Mar 14, 202455:27
#79 - Mike Dyson: Infinity Water Solutions

#79 - Mike Dyson: Infinity Water Solutions

In today's edition: Producing a single barrel of oil might use up anywhere from two to ten barrels of fresh water, depending on different factors. Figuring out the best mix of water technologies and business strategies to treat the wastewater from the oil and gas industry is our discussion with Mike Dyson, CEO of Infinity Water Solutions. The talk emphasizes the importance of rethinking water as a valuable resource rather than a waste product. Just like how the banana industry ensures bananas arrive ripe worldwide, the oil and gas industry are now carefully managing water treatment. This means they're focusing on using water wisely and innovatively to support their work. Mike sheds light on the hurdles of integrating new tech into traditional fields and the power of collaboration in overcoming these challenges. Looking ahead, Dyson envisions a future where efficient water use is not just an ideal but a reality. How can industries adopt more sustainable practices to ensure a water-secure future? 

Mar 07, 202401:13:25
#78 - Dr. Peter van Thienen: KWR

#78 - Dr. Peter van Thienen: KWR

In this episode, Rhea and I interviewed Peter Van Thienen, who is the principal scientist at KWR. Peter offers insights into collapsology, defined as the study of how and why societies might decline or collapse due to environmental or economic pressures, and its critical relevance to water infrastructure. With a transition from geosciences to water research, he emphasizes the importance of preparing water systems for the unpredictability of future societal shifts and environmental changes. The discussion emphasizes the necessity for water infrastructure to be resilient and adaptable. Peter’s research field also advocates for proactive strategies to protect water resources against the backdrop of potential societal collapse, ensuring community well-being and environmental sustainability.

Feb 29, 202459:25
#77 - Adrian Sym: Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS)

#77 - Adrian Sym: Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS)

In our episode, we explore the journey and mission of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS), as shared by Adrian Sym. Water stewardship involves responsibly managing and conserving water resources to ensure their sustainability and equitable access for present and future generations. AWS brings together businesses, NGOs, and governments to promote sustainable water use and tackle global water challenges. With a focus on collaboration and the AWS Standard, they aim to improve water management worldwide. But what makes their approach unique, and how does it impact areas like the Ica Valley in Peru, where water scarcity and agriculture intertwine?

Looking ahead, AWS is keen on enhancing their strategies to address the intertwined challenges of water stewardship and climate change. They plan to leverage their community and resources more effectively, making a significant impact on climate resilience. How can individuals and organizations get involved and contribute to these efforts? Sym highlights the importance of joining AWS, engaging in training, and staying informed as key steps towards making a real difference in water stewardship.

Feb 22, 202456:33
#76 - Guillaume Valladeau: VORTEX-IO

#76 - Guillaume Valladeau: VORTEX-IO

Extreme weather changes, especially severe floods, are now a routine part of our lives. The old ways of tracking water levels in rivers and streams are often too slow, inaccurate, and expensive to maintain. By switching to modern technology, we can get fast, precise information with fewer maintenance demands, improving how we monitor water levels and manage flood risks. In our podcast, I talk with Guillaume Valladeau, the CEO of VORTEX-IO, about how their innovative technology is making a difference in predicting and monitoring water levels. Valladeau highlights the importance of VORTEX-IO's real-time data in responding to flood events, especially useful in insurance scenarios, emphasizing its critical role for businesses and governments in addressing water-related hazards effectively.

Feb 15, 202450:18
#75 - Naomi Timmer: H2O People

#75 - Naomi Timmer: H2O People

In this episode, Naomi Timmer, a figure in water management, shares her comprehensive approach to tackling water challenges. As the director of European Junior Water Programme and H2O People, Timmer integrates her expertise in political science and religious studies to emphasize the importance of personal and professional development in water management. One of the central questions in our discussion has been: How can we integrate technical expertise, leadership, and community engagement to address water management challenges in an innovative and comprehensive manner?

Feb 08, 202401:02:47
#74 - Dr. Newsha Ajami

#74 - Dr. Newsha Ajami

In this podcast episode, Dr. Newsha Ajami, Chief Strategy and Development Officer for Research at Berkeley Lab, discusses the evolving intersection of water policy and science. Dr. Ajami highlights the need for water management strategies to adapt to climate change and the importance of integrating science, human needs, and environmental considerations into policy-making. She addresses the challenges in developing sustainable urban water systems and the necessity of bridging the gap between science, policy, and community. Traditional water models, which focus on average scenarios like snowfall, precipitation, and flooding levels, are becoming outdated due to climate change's unpredictability. This change challenges the effectiveness of single-solution approaches such as desalination, which alone cannot comprehensively tackle diverse water challenges like desertification, flooding, and irregular precipitation patterns. In water, As Dr. Ajami concluded this episode ‘’we need system level thinkers as well as topic expert’’. The episode would encourage you to consider transitioning from traditional practices to holistic solutions for a sustainable water future. 

Feb 01, 202401:11:48
#73 - Dr. Lidietta Giorno

#73 - Dr. Lidietta Giorno

Join us on our latest podcast episode to explore membrane technology with eminent scientist and researcher Dr. Lidietta Giorno of ITM-CNR, hosted by Rhea and me. Dr. Giorno guides us through her innovative research, a fusion of biology, chemistry, and engineering. She shares her insights, reflecting on the interconnectedness of knowledge: 'the sectorial subdivision of disciplines is something artificial that we have invented in order to educate people. But in the end, the knowledge is very unified’ echoing Aristotle's belief that 'the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.'

Ever wondered how the sophisticated designs of nature can shape future membranes for a greener planet? Discover the mystic of bioremediation and biosensors – how do these innovative membranes promise a cleaner environment? We also explore the world of enzyme-immobilized membranes. Imagine the possibilities they could unlock in water treatment and more. And there's more: get the scoop on self-cleaning membrane technologies that Lidietta is researching. Could this be the birth of a new era in membrane maintenance?

Jan 25, 202401:30:32
#72 - John Matthews: AGWA

#72 - John Matthews: AGWA

Join us in our latest podcast episode where I discuss with John Matthews, Executive Director at AGWA, about effective water management in the era of climate change. He talks about the organization's approach to building resilience and adapting water resources management, a critical need in today's changing climate. Our conversation highlights how AGWA uses its methods to improve how we manage water globally. They bring together water management and climate science expertise, assisting governments, businesses, and communities in making smarter decisions about water use in the face of climate change

One of the key parts of our conversation revolves around the challenges of updating legacy water systems and the urgency of new investments in water infrastructure, especially in developing countries. John emphasizes the importance of adapting our water management systems to be more climate-resilient and the need for integrating policy, finance, and technical knowledge to create sustainable water management solutions.

He also shares some inspiring success stories from around the globe. From Udon Thani in Thailand, where urban lakes have become multifaceted solutions to water management issues, to Panama's climate ministry integrating water as a central theme in policy-making, and California emerges as a beacon of hope under Governor @Gavin Newsom, redefining water resilience as a driver of prosperity.

For young professionals in the water sector, John offers valuable advice. He stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and continuous learning. He encourages embracing the complexities of water management that go beyond the water cycle, involving legal, governance, economic, and social systems. 

Jan 18, 202401:18:10
#71 - Prof. Brett Bryan

#71 - Prof. Brett Bryan

Join Rhea and me on a captivating journey with Prof. Brett Bryan from Deakin University, as we deal with the dynamic world of water sustainability in our latest podcast episode. Ever wondered how water scarcity touches our global food supply, or the role invisible 'virtual water' plays in our daily lives? Prof. Bryan reveals the involved connections between local water bodies and global water trends, with a surprising twist on the impact of small lakes. What does this mean for our planet's health and our future? He brings to light the power of ecosystem service flows and the necessity of collaborative, cross-disciplinary solutions. Imagine a world where shared responsibility becomes the cornerstone of managing our water resources. Can storytelling transform the way we approach and solve complex environmental issues? Prof. Bryan thinks so. Tune in to discover the answers and explore the complicated textile of water sustainability with us.

Jan 11, 202401:06:57
#70 - Prof. Dragan Savic: KWR

#70 - Prof. Dragan Savic: KWR

In our podcast episode, we explore the world of water management with Professor Dragan Savic, CEO of KWR Water Research Institute. With his extensive background in Hydroinformatics and environmental engineering, Professor Savic shares his journey from academia to leading a prominent water research organization. But what makes KWR stand out in the crowded field of water research? Their unique approach blends scientific inquiry with practical applications, driven by the needs of Dutch and Flemish drinking water companies. How does this collaboration shape their research priorities, and what innovative solutions are they developing for the water sector? Professor Savic discusses the challenges and opportunities in aligning KWR's work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the importance of tackling pollution and managing resource competition. But in an era of climate change and urbanization, how is KWR adapting its strategies for sustainable water cycle management? Discover how their innovative research and tools are paving the way for a more resilient future in water management, and what insights Professor Savic offers for those aspiring to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Jan 04, 202452:16
#69 - Valerie Fehst: PipePredict

#69 - Valerie Fehst: PipePredict

In this episode, Valerie Fehst, co-founder of PipePredict, shares her journey from physics to launching a water leak detection system. How did her physics background lead to PipePredict's creation? The company's approach, blending data analysis, digital twin, machine learning, and existing sensors, aims to pinpoint leaks. But how does PipePredict navigate the complexities of diverse sensors and pipe types to ensure accuracy? Their work in leak detection also aids environmental conservation. What environmental impact is PipePredict achieving? Additionally, what future water management innovations is Valerie considering for PipePredict? For newcomers to the water industry, Valerie offers insights. Her story illustrates the significant impact achievable in specialized fields like water management.

Dec 21, 202350:00
#68 - Lyle King: Influx Search

#68 - Lyle King: Influx Search

In this latest podcast episode featuring Lyle King, CEO of Influx Search, as he sheds light on the nuances of recruiting in the water industry. King discusses his journey and the unique challenges in this specialized sector. But what drives a focus solely on water industry recruitment? 🤔He then explores the growth and expansion strategies of Influx Search, especially in clean tech and sustainability. Within technological advancements, how does Influx balance tech with the vital human element in recruitment? King emphasizes the importance of a passion for water conservation in candidates, beyond just technical skills. What advice does he offer to those transitioning to the water industry? For startups in the water sector, Influx Search isn't just a recruitment firm; it's a consultancy guiding them on talent needs, including navigating diverse regulatory landscapes.

📌 Your comments and thoughts are greatly appreciated – feel free to share them!

Dec 07, 202341:26
#67 - Dr. Arian Edalat: Active Membranes

#67 - Dr. Arian Edalat: Active Membranes

In this episode, join Dr. Arian Edalat, Co-Founder and CEO of Active Membranes, as we explore the journey from academic research to real-world industrial applications in water treatment. How has Edalat's team successfully accelerated the commercialization of Active Membranes in the desalination industry? Edalat shares that targeting areas with significant challenges, where people are eager for solutions and the impact is greatest, is key to the successful early adoption of innovative water technologies like Active Membranes. We discuss the challenges of fouling and scaling in desalination plants and how Active Membranes electrically conductive membranes offer a cost-effective and efficient solution. What does the future hold for these innovative “smart membranes” in water treatment? Discover how Active Membranes, recognized as Water Tech Idol 2023, is pushing the boundaries to make desalination more sustainable and accessible. Learn about the potential of transforming commercial nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membranes into active membranes utilizing the expertise at Active Membranes. 

Nov 23, 202301:01:43
 #66 - Dr. André F. van Rooyen

#66 - Dr. André F. van Rooyen

In this episode, Rhea and I explore the world of agriculture and water management in Africa with our guest, Dr. André F. van Rooyen, a Principal Scientist at ICRISAT in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We discussed the intricate dance between modern agriculture and age-old farming wisdom. As land areas get smaller, how can we optimize food production in places like Africa? Why, despite the World Bank's massive irrigation projects, do some solutions seem to add more complexity than clarity? Dr. van Rooyen challenges the notion that more water always equals more food and highlights the unintended consequences of over-reliance on fertilizers. Interestingly, he emphasizes that modern advanced agriculture has much to learn from indigenous, often illiterate, yet profoundly wise and intelligent farmers. Can we truly bridge the gap between modern science and millennia of farming knowledge, especially when it comes to water management?

Nov 09, 202301:11:51
#65 - James Ellsmoor: Island Innovation

#65 - James Ellsmoor: Island Innovation

In this episode, meet James Ellsmoor, the CEO @ Island Innovation. We'll explore the unique water challenges islands face. Consider this: tourism intensifies their water demands. So, how do they adapt? How does Island Innovation platform bridge sustainable island water solutions with water startups, governments, and financial institutions? Dive into our episode as we discuss the relationship between tourism, renewable energy, and island-specific water solutions. Are islands just smaller versions of global challenges or do they need their own solutions? Tune in to find out!

Oct 26, 202344:45
#64 - Dr. Piotr Dlugolecki: Aqua Azure

#64 - Dr. Piotr Dlugolecki: Aqua Azure

In this episode, Dr. Piotr Dlugolecki and I discuss water-based energy generation and storage, highlighting the potential of reverse electrodialysis technology and ion exchange membranes. We talk about the challenges and opportunities in hydrogen production, especially in Europe, and look at the future of energy storage solutions, including redox flow batteries. Our guest, Piotr, founder of Aqua-Azure, shares his journey from moving countries to starting a company and offers insights into helping businesses grow faster.

Oct 12, 202301:03:30
#63 - Karen Schuett: Livestock Water

#63 - Karen Schuett: Livestock Water

This episode features Karen Schuett, Co-Founder and CEO of Livestock Water Recycling (LWR). With her roots in zoology, Karen embarked on a journey from groundwater treatment in the oil and gas sector to forging solutions in livestock manure treatment. A local farmer's challenge with manure lagoons prompted this shift, leading to the development of LWR's specialized system.

Livestock waste is denser than municipal waste, making its treatment a challenge. LWR has developed a system that efficiently separates this waste and recovers nutrients. This approach is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and even allows farmers to sell the extracted nutrients. By using machine learning, LWR has cut chemical use by 40%. Karen Schuett and her team are now looking to harness data, like weather and animal health, to further refine their solutions. Learn about the future of livestock water recycling through Karen's insights

Sep 28, 202357:37
#62 - Prof. Julio Berbel

#62 - Prof. Julio Berbel

🎙️ Join us in our latest episode with Professor Julio Berbel from the University of Cordoba. Together with Rhea Verbeke, we delve deep into the intricacies of European water management. From the fundamental Water Framework Directive to the debate between water pricing vs. governance, we explore the future of sustainable water use. 💧 Curious about the balance between policy and practice? Give it a listen! 

Sep 14, 202301:04:42
#61 - Oliver Lawal: AquiSense Technologies

#61 - Oliver Lawal: AquiSense Technologies

In this episode, Oliver Lawal, the CEO and founder of AquiSense Technologies, talks about the challenges in water disinfection and the promise of UV-C LED technology as an alternative to chemical treatments. He shares the progress of UV-C LED chips, how they're becoming more affordable, and their real-world applications. The conversation explores how to enhance UV systems and what's on the horizon for water purification.

Aug 31, 202355:39
#60 - Prof. Ryan Kingsbury

#60 - Prof. Ryan Kingsbury

In this episode, Rhea and I talk with Professor Ryan Kingsbury from Princeton University about ion-selective transport in membranes. We discuss how traditional methods based on particle size and charge fall short for tasks like extracting lithium from brine. Professor Kingsbury highlights the importance of considering molecular interactions and electronic structures of ions. We also learn about his career journey, exploring the different rewards of academia and industry. 

Aug 17, 202356:06
#59 - Brian Pinkard: Aquagga

#59 - Brian Pinkard: Aquagga

In this episode, we'll delve into the water treatment solutions for PFAS with our guest, Brian Pinkard, the CTO & Co-Founder at Aquagga. We'll uncover the journey from using hydrothermal technology for destroying chemical weapons, to now dealing with PFAS. Learn about the safety, cost-effectiveness, and advantages of Hydrothermal Alkaline Treatment or HALT technology, and see how it measures up against other methods like incineration. Plus, we'll discuss the financial implications, regulatory factors, and corporate duties when it comes to water contaminated with PFAS.

Aug 03, 202344:36
#58 - Prof. Richard Luthy

#58 - Prof. Richard Luthy

In this podcast episode, Rhea and I were thankful to engage with Prof. Richard Luthy, a renowned ocean engineer, @US Nav Navy submersible pilot, and chemical engineering PhD from University of California, Berkeley, now teaching Civil Engineering at Stanford University. With water scarcity as a central topic, Prof. Luthy elaborated on the indispensable role of stormwater capture and reuse. He emphasized the importance of collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches in water management, advocating for reform in both urban and rural sectors regarding water rights and agricultural practices. His discussion highlighted the need to leave more water for ecosystems, urging us to recognize and acknowledge our collective responsibility in this issue. One of the profound quotes that Rhea and I gleaned from this conversation is, "We are all part of the problem, we are all part of the solution”

Jul 06, 202301:16:04
#57 - Prof. Markus Berger

#57 - Prof. Markus Berger

The water footprint is the water that we consume and pollute in the supply chain of our daily goods. We may use around 125 liters of water/day at home, but in total we are consuming around 7000 liters of water/day via the food we eat and the fashion we buy. To better understand the water footprint, Rhea and I hosted prof Markus Berger from the University of Twente. We learned more about different types of water and, more importantly, about how much our awareness of our daily purchased goods can affect water scarcity. It may sound like an exaggeration but raising awareness about and decreasing our water footprint may solve the current water crisis much faster than developing breakthrough water technologies.

Nov 26, 202201:09:15
#56 - Riggs Eckelberry: OriginClear
Nov 17, 202249:35
#55 - Prof. Stefan Wuertz

#55 - Prof. Stefan Wuertz

A growing global population causes an increased demand for food, and more specifically for more sustainable protein sources. In this podcast episode, Rhea and I had an inspiring discussion with Stefan Wuertz, Professor of Environmental Engineering at Nanyang Technological University, about microbial community-based protein production from wastewater for animal feed applications. Stefan’s interdisciplinary team is researching and engineering processes that can grow bacteria in wastewater. The bacteria biomass contains proteins that can be used as feed for animals. The water footprint of this process is much lower than that of conventional protein sources, as the water that is used here would normally be discarded. Currently, his team is computing  the economical feasibility and sustainability of this process, while collaborating with the industry for product valorization.

Nov 03, 202201:14:02
#54 - Prof. Ngai Yin Yip

#54 - Prof. Ngai Yin Yip

Finding a niche in academic water research can be challenging for young professors and postdocs. In this episode, Rhea and I hosted Prof. Ngai Yin Yip, professor at Columbia University, who conducts research on membrane-less and non-evaporative desalination of hypersaline brines by temperature swing solvent extraction (TSSE). This TSSE desalination is driven by low-grade thermal heat to cost-competitively treat high-salinity waters. He is also developing a cost-competitive and sustainable membrane-based process to remove and recover nitrogen as ammonia and phosphor as phosphate from nutrient-rich wastewaters.

Oct 20, 202202:13:60
#53 - Greg Newbloom: Membrion

#53 - Greg Newbloom: Membrion

Ceramic membranes are robust, durable and outperform polymeric membranes in harsh liquid environments. However, their price is still high because of the raw materials and the high temperature of manufacturing. Here is an advanced silica-based (silica is the most abundant elements in Earth's crust) sol-gel ceramic membrane that is synthesized without high temperature processing. In this episode, Greg Newbloom, founder & CEO of Membrion, shares how he scales up an academic lab membrane to an industrial membrane to treat difficult wastewater such as produced water in petroleum industry. The Membrion technology comprises ion exchange membranes that are stacked together to remove charged species and recover clean water from wastewater.

Sep 08, 202252:59
#52 - Prof. Wiebe M. de Vos

#52 - Prof. Wiebe M. de Vos

Prof. Wiebe M. de Vos, leader of the research group Membrane Surface Science at Twente University, tries to solve complex water treatment problems through interdisciplinary and creative research. In this episode, he shares his three research pillars with us: 1- Complex fouling mechanisms occurring when treating e.g. produced water from O&G, 2- Coatings, layer by layer and polyelectrolyte membranes, and 3- A fully aqueous membrane synthesis platform. We also talk about the research edges and opportunities in ion exchange membranes.

Aug 25, 202201:57:40
#51 - Ole Kristian Sivertsen: Desert Control

#51 - Ole Kristian Sivertsen: Desert Control

Imagine whenever you go to the supermarket, you can find the water consumption of any food product on its label! The amount of water that was consumed from its planting to its harvesting. Wouldn’t that help you make a sustainable choice? Why food?! because agriculture consumes above 60% of the total water consumption across industries. According to the United Nations, above 12 million hectares are becoming desert every year or as Ole Kristian Sivertsen said, “about one football field of fertile land disappears every two seconds”. One nonchemical way to return desert to fertile land has been developed by Desert Control. Ole Kristian Sivertsen, CEO of Desert Control, explains in this episode how big and challenging the desertification problem and how Desert Control solution can stop and recover dying lands to green land. The solution is called Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) that can be produced onsite and sprayed directly to sand or arid soil to form a structure like sponge, which enables the sand to capture water for a long time and improve its mineral composition contents for agriculture. As a result, LNC saves up to 50% of water and fertilizer consumption.

Aug 11, 202257:59
#50 - Bruno Abreu: SCUBIC
Jul 28, 202201:03:16
#49 - Prof. Mathias Wessling

#49 - Prof. Mathias Wessling

Professor Mathias Wessling from RWTH Aachen University in Germany, winner of the Leibniz 2019 price, is innovating four pillars of membrane technology: 1-hollow fiber NF, 2-layer by layer membranes, 3-AI backward design recipes, and 4-water treatment inverse problems. We (Rhea Verbeke and I) talked about the contributions of his research that have been made it from lab scale to pilot scale to industrial products.  His membrane innovations are either licensed to companies such as Evonik or transformed into new companies such as Con-vergence, furthr-research, Amovion and Biothrust. Currently, his team is developing a novel membrane for dialysis that has thepotential to shift the dialysis market. Enjoy this episode that bridges valuable insights for academics, industrial experts and investors active in water field and beyond!

Jul 14, 202201:33:52
#48 - Victor L. Shikoli: HydroIQ

#48 - Victor L. Shikoli: HydroIQ

According to HydroIQ, half of the water supplied by utilities in Africa is lost before reaching the consumer due to leakages. Hence, there is a need for an online platform layer between water suppliers and consumers to visualize the exact consumed amount of water and pay for this amount frictionless. Victor L. Shikoli, co-founder of HydroIQ, shares in this podcast episode how HydroIQ assist homes, utilities, businesses and industries to use, manage, report, bill and pay for water efficiently.

Jun 30, 202246:44
#47 - Prof. Mihail Barboiu

#47 - Prof. Mihail Barboiu

Professor Mihail Barboiu belongs to the pioneers of biomimetic membranes. Via supramolecular chemistry, he designs artificial channels, embedded in membranes, through which water or ions can selectively permeate. In this episode, we dive into Prof. Mihail’s journey: his inspiration, the working mechanisms of artificial channels, the upscaling of these membranes, and the impact they can have on society as they can reach  2 LMHbar output. These membranes seem way ahead of the game implying they can cut CAPEX and OPEX of seawater desalination by half! We also touch on other applications such as the selective removal of lithium from sea water and the potential of artificial water channels in medical applications. This episode contains many insights, all the way from nano to macro!

Jun 16, 202201:45:03
#46 - Prof. Andrea Iris Schäfer

#46 - Prof. Andrea Iris Schäfer

"I have a dream: safe water for all children" professor Andrea Iris Schäfer, KIT. In this episode, Rhea and I hosted Prof. Andrea Schaefer who develops reliable drinking water systems at an affordable price for several communities in Africa and abroad. These decentralized systems combine membrane technology with renewable energy. Moreover, she is researching and developing low pressure reactive membranes to remove endocrine disrupters from wastewater. It was inspiring to learn how her academic career started and how it developed over the years. Her vision and the key insights she shared with us in this episode can be valuable for junior researchers who would like to pursue an academic career.

May 26, 202253:12
#45 - Prof. Jeffrey McCutcheon

#45 - Prof. Jeffrey McCutcheon

“Our ideas are our art as scientists” professor Jeffrey McCutcheon at the University of Connecticut, USA. In this episode, my co-host Rhea Verbeke and I discuss Prof's breakthrough research on additive manufacturing methods for water purification membranes. We talk about the gaps between academia and industry, about the hype cycle of new water technologies and the opportunities that lay in convergence research. He also shares interesting new research directions and talks about what you need to become a good academician.

Apr 28, 202201:54:36
#44 - Steve Creech: Wyland Foundation

#44 - Steve Creech: Wyland Foundation

''Thousands have lived without love, not one without water'' W.H.Auden was a poet (1907-1973).  The Wyland Foundation, a non-profit organization, brings artists, scientists and teachers together to raise environmental awareness through education programs, public arts projects, and community events. Steve Creech, president of The Wyland Foundation, shares in this episode the tools and the key lessons of the US Mayor’s Challenge to save water across the US.

Apr 14, 202259:19
#43 - Jan Post: Wetsus
Mar 31, 202201:05:55
#42 - James Dunning: Syrinix
Mar 17, 202246:58
#41 - Max Gangestad: GWT algae water solution

#41 - Max Gangestad: GWT algae water solution

The harvesting cost of algal biofilm is one of the bottleneck of commercialising algae-based product. GWT developed a system that uses vertically oriented conveyor belts that grow algae on their surface. Max Gangestad, COO at GWT, elaborates on GWT solution and how algae can be used to make fertilisers, bioplastics, and biofuels.

Mar 03, 202250:26
#40 - Amanda Siqueira: VAPAR

#40 - Amanda Siqueira: VAPAR

According to Eureau.org, the total length of the sewer network in EU is 3 million km. Because of the aging, population growth and pandemic situation, the stress is increasing on this network, which leads to leakage and abrupt. One efficient way to assess the sewer network is to record and watch the cleaned pipes via cameras. VAPAR is a platform using AI to process this CCTV (closed-circuit television) files at a fast pace to detect the leakages and increase network exploitation efficiency. Amanda Siqueira, CEO at VAPAR, explains the golden circle: why, how and what is VAPAR solution to the water market.

Feb 17, 202250:51
#39 - Amrit Om Nayak: Indra water

#39 - Amrit Om Nayak: Indra water

Amrit Om Nayak, Co-Founder & CEO at Indra Water, discusses a novel decentralized Electro-oxidation (EO) system designed to treat two wastewater categories; Blackwater and greywater. This system provides a chemical free alternative to chemical coagulation or Membrane bioreactor (MBR). Among questions in the episode: when and how to use Indra system instead of conventional ones to treat a wide range of COD and harmful chemicals from different industrial wastewater streams.

Jan 20, 202236:44
#38 - Baker Bozeyeh: Flowless

#38 - Baker Bozeyeh: Flowless

Non-revenue water (NRW) is water that is supplied to the system but doesn’t reach the customer. Among the factors behind this phenomena are the lack of knowledge of the network and outdated infrastructures. Baker Bozeyeh, CEO of Flowless, explains in this episode how Flowless can enhance water supply efficiency by deploying emerging technologies for automated faults detection & process optimization.

Jan 06, 202242:58
#37 - Zachary Sadow: KMX Technologies
Dec 23, 202155:20
#36 - William Janssen: Desolenator

#36 - William Janssen: Desolenator

Desolenator uses both solar-generated heat and electricity to power the desalination process. William Janssen, discusses how Desolenator add techno-economic benefits compared to conventional desalination techs combined with renewable energy.
Oct 21, 202157:25
#35 - Chris Thomas: AQUA4D

#35 - Chris Thomas: AQUA4D

AQUA4D® is a resonance fields technology that solves salinity while decreasing water use and increasing overall productivity. In this 35# episode, Chris Thomas, marketing leader at AQUA4D®, discusses the sustainable impacts of this cleantech in the water industry and beyond.


Sep 24, 202157:20
#34 - Qilin Li: Solar Membrane Distillation
Jul 29, 202155:04
#33 - Peter Christou: SWIRLTEX: a new spin on membrane filtration

#33 - Peter Christou: SWIRLTEX: a new spin on membrane filtration

Peter Christou, founder and CEO of Swirltex, elaborates the following points: ·  how buoyancy manipulation of solid contaminants is paired with a swirling flow pattern leads to over 100% flux increase of a tubular membrane. ·  50% of air mixed with water pumped through a tubular membrane where water spiraling around the membrane and air creates a surface tension around suspended solids to diminish concentration polarization and overcome building cake layer. ·  value of coupling Swirltex with RO technology to solve water applications such as produced water in O&G.
Jul 15, 202158:58