As part of the ReLEAF project framework, our partner Leitat recently welcomed Jarod, a master’s student, as a trainee to conduct his thesis research in the field of nutrient recovery from sewage sludge and digestates.
Jarod’s thesis focused on the recovery of two key nutrients—nitrogen and phosphorus—from urban sewage sludge and digestates. Using membrane-assisted stripping and crystallization techniques, he explored the efficient recovery of nitrogen in the form of ammonium sulphate and phosphorus as struvite. These processes are importatn to the development of sustainable, bio-based fertilisers and align closely with ReLEAF’s mission to recover valuable nutrients from bio-waste.
Because the thesis work was carried out within the ReLEAF framework, all data generated will contribute directly to the project, supporting ongoing technology optimisation efforts. This collaboration is a great example of how strong collaborations between universities and EU projects can offer promising opportunities to optimize project outcomes and foster innovation.
We are proud to see how collaborations like this can bridge academic research with real-world impact, paving the way toward more sustainable agricultural practices.