The research group RNM-152: Waste Valorization Technologies and Catalytic Processes was set up in 1988 and, initially, its research focused on the treatment of solids, mainly minerals, by flotation and studies of solid-liquid-gas interfaces. Subsequently, new lines of research were opened up. A line of research was incorporated that studies the elimination of heavy metals present in aqueous media by means of biosorption, mainly using agricultural waste as solid sorbents. This line of research was developed to pilot scale and has made the group an international reference.

In turn, this research group has focused its activity on the recovery of solid waste from different perspectives, whether for water purification, energy recovery or obtaining high-value products. In addition, within this line, it is worth highlighting the field of plastic waste, in which national and international projects of great relevance for the productive sector are being carried out. A new line focused on the development of catalytic processes with special interest in the valorisation of bio-mass waste is also being developed by the group. 

The main lines of research are as follows:

- Flotation and alternative methods of solids concentration.

- Development of adsorbents and adsorption processes for environmental purposes.

- Valorisation of plastic waste.

- Hydrothermal fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass.

- Development of thermo- and photo-catalytic processes.

- Life cycle analysis in the industrial sector.


Group web page