Public defence in Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Kuldeep
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Title of the thesis: A step towards a circular economy: Processing waste effluents to acid and alkaline using ion exchange membrane electrodialysis
Doctoral student: Master of Science Kuldeep
Opponent: Professor Vicente M. Aguilella, Universitat Jaume I, Spain
Custos: Professor Lasse Murtomäki, Aalto University, Finland
Converting industrial waste into valuable chemicals
Kuldeep's doctoral research, to be defended at Aalto University, focuses on a sustainable way to treat industrial wastewater containing sulfate and carbonate rich effluents. Industries like battery production, metallurgical, black-mass refineries, and mining generate sodium sulfate as a byproduct, which, although not harmful in low concentrations, can lead to increased salinity and environmental challenges when present in higher concentrations. Green liquor, another industrial byproduct from pulp and paper industries, also requires careful management to prevent environmental impact. His work uses Bipolar Membrane Electrodialysis (BPED), supported by COMSOL simulations and studies on various ion exchange membranes, to convert this waste into useful chemicals like sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide, which can be reused in industrial processes. This research provides practical solutions for reducing waste and supporting a circular economy, aligning with global sustainability goals. Kuldeep’s findings could help industries adopt more eco-friendly practices by improving wastewater treatment technology. The dissertation defense is scheduled for October 11th, 2024.
→Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence
Contact information:
Kuldeep
[email protected]