Sunlight active materials to address the emerging contaminants pollution

About this project

<p style="text-align: justify"><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">The last years face a continuous increase in production and commercialization of a large variety of substances of general use but with high impact on human health such as drugs, cosmetics, household products, pesticides. The United Nations World Water Development Report 2018 states that An estimated 80% of all industrial and municipal wastewater are released to the environment without any prior treatment, resulting in a growing deterioration of water quality with detrimental impacts on human health and ecosystems.&nbsp;As alternative to the current methods for wastewater treatment, the&nbsp; goal is to develope an experimental laboratory set-up based on solar light active materials for decomposition of contaminants (antibiotics and other drugs, odorizants, pesticides) in aquatic systems. Activities include (a) Identification of the materials with improved activity under visible light exposure t;(b) Identification of the optimal conditions for the contaminant’s degradation catalysed by the active materials exposed to sunlight;(c) The deposition of the active materials on solid surfaces in order to ensure the accessibility and simplicity of the experimental set-up for removal of targeted pollutants. The experimental set-up we are aiming represent, at laboratory scale, a significant step in development of a rapid and green alternative for water remediation - cleaning up emerging contaminants in drinking waters. On long term this means an improvement in quality of life, especially in terms of physical health, as water is a key ingredient for our daily living. The donor partner University of South-Eastern Norway brings the expertise on the active materials fabrication techniques to the EEA project as well as offers fundamental understanding of the catalytic processes for degrading the pollutants under visible light illumination. They also disseminate the research results through Norwegian micro/nano expertise platform, such as NorFab.</span></span></p>

Bilateral cooperation results

The project, collaboratively undertaken by USN from Norway and INCDTIM Cluj-Napoca and IFIN-HH Bucharest from Romania, significantly contributed to the EEA and Norway Grants' goals of reducing economic and social disparities and strengthening bilateral relations. The project focused on developing innovative materials to combat water contaminants, improving public health and the environment. This advancement in environmental nanotechnology addresses critical needs in both Norway and Romania, promoting cleaner water essential for health, agriculture, and industry. The project exemplified the spirit of the EEA and Norway Grants by fostering strong ties between Norway and Romania. The partnership facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise, benefiting both nations. Norwegian expertise in nanotechnology and Romania’s local insights into pollution challenges created a synergistic relationship, enhancing the project's effectiveness. Joint research activities and research visits promoted cultural exchange and mutual understanding, building lasting networks among scientists. In conclusion, the project aligns with the EEA and Norway Grants' objectives by reducing disparities through innovation and strengthening bilateral relations through collaboration, highlighting the power of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.

Project partners

• University College of Southeast Norway Donor project partner· Norway
• Horia Hulubei National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering Project partner· Romania