Enabling resource recovery from industrial wastewater

In the IN.CYCLE project, researchers and industry partners are working together to develop and demonstrate an innovative, modular treatment chain for industrial wastewater with high salinity and organic content. The aim is to enable the recovery and reuse of water, energy and chemicals in industrial processes.

IN.CYCLE addresses a key challenge in European industry: the management of complex wastewater streams with high salinity and organic content, where conventional treatment methods are often insufficient and the potential for resource recovery is significant.

Within the project, research institutes, universities and industrial partners collaborate to develop and demonstrate an integrated and modular treatment chain. This combines advanced technologies such as electrodialysis, biological treatment and membrane filtration with digital tools including digital twins, sensor networks and predictive analytics.

Through this work, a more flexible, load-adaptive treatment approach is made possible, where water can be reused, energy can be recovered (for example in the form of biogas), and chemicals can be reclaimed. The project thus contributes to the development of circular water systems and reduced environmental impact in industry.

IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute is responsible for parts of the work related to digital twins, sensors and life cycle assessment, with a focus on evaluating environmental and climate benefits.