Duration: 01.07.2024 - 30.06.2027

The KeraRes project focuses on the development of an innovative water treatment technology. Functional polyelectrolyte layers are applied to ceramic membranes using the layer-by-layer (LbL) process. The coated membranes are intended to efficiently remove polyvalent ions such as hardness formers, as well as organic molecules, including persistent compounds such as PFAS.

One of the main focuses of the project is the development of the KeraRes module with a backwash system. The module itself and its operating conditions are being optimised. This includes an improved supply and discharge of the rinsing water in order to efficiently rinse out the retained particles. At the same time, the optimum parameters such as flow rate and pressure for the coated ceramic membrane installed in the module are determined during filtration and backwash operation.

In order to increase resource efficiency, the LbL layer should be regenerable to prevent the disposal of membrane modules. These measures can increase the service life by a factor of 5-10 compared to conventional polymer membranes.

Increasing energy efficiency is another goal of the KeraRes project. The backwashability and regenerability of the NF separation layer enable a one-step process that makes pre-treatment of the water by microfiltration superfluous. Energy efficiency can be further increased through better control of fouling.