GESPA

The research activities in GESPA are in the framework of the environment engineering and the molecular simulation of processes. The group, formed by interdisciplinary scientists who combine chemical engineering, biotechnology and analyses with a theoretical- experimental approach, in order to improve more sustainable processes. The targets are based on finding solutions to new challenges in our society: climate change, lack of water and population growth.

RESEARCH INTERESTS ARE FOCUSED ON THREE MAIN AREAS

1. Treatment and water re-using: Development of new processes and sustainable disinfection, advanced oxidation processes (AOP), adsorption, membranes, biofilms, elimination of recalcitrant organic compounds by means of fungi and elimination of nitrogen by means of partial nitrification and Anammox processes.
2. Mitigation of greenhouse gases impact: Capture, transport, storing and/or CO2 transformation, reduction of N2O emissions in water treatment and fluorinated gases treatment.
3. Sustainable energy growth: Valorisation of biomass, optimisation of lignocellulosic biorefinery processes for obtaining second and third biofuel generation and phenolic resins from lignin, and searching for alternative solvents more efficient and environmentally sustainable.

Two key transversal lines complement such previous research areas:

Molecular modelling and processes: Development and application of equations of advanced state (SAFT) in order to thermophysic characterising of solvents and fluids of interest, Monte Carlo and molecular dynamic simulations, computational fluid dynamics (CDF), simulations of process (Aspen Hysys) and life cycle assessment (LCA).

Analytical Techniques: development of methods for the analytical determination of persistent organic pollutants (dioxins, furans, polychlorinated biphenyls, flame retardants, etc.) and their application to the following-up of degradation processes and the setting-up of levels in environmental and food matrices.

Dr. Fèlix Llovell Ferret – Director