Hybrid Electrolyzers for VOlatile compound Cleaning (HEVOClean)

• Grant number: 25/12718-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Technology
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Fernanda de Lourdes Souza
• Grantee: Fernanda de Lourdes Souza
• Principal researcher abroad: Manuel Andrés Rodrigo Rodrigo
• Institution abroad: Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real (UCLM) , Spain
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química de São Carlos (IQSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Carlos
• Associated research grant: 24/02379-1 - New hybrid gas-cleaning technologies based on electroscrubber, AP.R

Abstract

This bilateral collaboration project aims to advance the development of hybrid electrochemical technologies for the elimination of volatile pollution. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are contaminants found in various industrial effluents, which can lead to the contamination of water, soil, and sediments. Due to their high toxicity, VOCs can cause serious harm to both ecosystems and human health. Therefore, it is necessary to develop efficient and cost-effective technologies for treating these pollutants. Electrochemical technology is a promising approach for VOC treatment, as it operates under mild conditions, is sustainable, and offers high efficiency. However, large-scale operation, particularly at low concentrations of pollutant gases at room temperature and in flow cell systems, remains a challenge. Thus, the main scientific goal of this collaborative project is to optimize the operating parameters of electrolyzers, evaluate the efficiency and synergy of integrated technologies, and conduct operation tests in electrochemical cells under optimized conditions to achieve higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). The technical and economic potential will also be assessed, especially based on the performance of the electrolyzer, including cell potential, current density, VOC removal/conversion rate, and energy consumption. The main actions contributing to the achievement of the outlined objectives include periodic remote monitoring meetings; exchange of researchers and graduate students; co-supervision of graduate students; and the organization of workshops during team visits. This bilateral partnership brings together two research institutions (IQSC-USP and UCLM-Spain), both renowned organizations with complementary expertise that can elevate this technology to a new level of readiness. The knowledge of both groups spans from fundamental and mechanistic studies, the development of high-performance electrocatalytic materials, and the design of electrochemical reactors, to the study of combined systems to advance the maturity of electrochemical technology. The synergy and complementarity between the expertise of the two proponents are key strengths of this proposal. The history of cooperation will certainly facilitate the deepening of this partnership and the consolidation of a research network. Moreover, the activities to be carried out through this joint cooperation are closely related to the research projects of both the Brazilian proponent (FAPESP Project) and the international collaborators. (AU)