TRAMPOLINE-

A training programme to promote the industrial adoption of microbial electrochemical technologies

Abstract:

TRAMPOLINe- is a joint academic-industrial interdisciplinary initiative with the primary goal of training a group of young researchers in the field of microbial electrochemical technologies (METs), while also developing innovative, ready-to-apply solutions to address global environmental challenges, including the contamination of the remaining freshwater sources, unsustainable production processes, anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, and the transition towards a renewable energy environment.

The main objective of TRAMPOLINe- is to form a collaborative network that (i) connects leading researchers in the core MET disciplines with SMEs and large companies, (ii) advances the state-of-the-art (SOTA) of METs to enable rapid industrial adoption, and (iii) trains a group of young researchers to become highly skilled MET scientists.

Due to the multidisciplinary nature of METs, the improvement of cutting-edge MET-based technologies requires international intersectoral cooperation to ensure proper industrial adoption. Doctoral training is carried out in research groups developing progressive technologies and materials for applying METs, with active involvement from industrial partners who can support their market adoption.

The candidates will develop MET-based technologies with a focus on bioremediation, desalination, industrial bioproduction, resource recovery, and the production of CO₂-based chemicals. Comprehensive technology development is supported by work packages dedicated to the microbiology of electroactive microorganisms, engineering of redox reactions and reactors, innovative materials, MET-based industrial bioproduction, environmental applications, and industrial adoption.

Leitat’s role in the project:

Leitat will contribute its expertise in the development of carbon- and metal-based electrodes as well as membrane materials, including the study of a paradigmatic case for a planar-type reactor. Additionally, Leitat will give a talk on membranes and their characterization.