Globally, 750 million tons of rice husks (RH) are produced annually, generating significant volumes of rice husk ash (RHA). Improper disposal of RHA causes pollution, health risks, and wastes high-silicon by-products. VALZEO transforms RHA into zeolite-based composite materials for environmental and energy applications. Persistent pollutants like pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, and heavy metals contaminate water, threatening ecosystems and public health. Current water treatment systems struggle to address these pollutants. VALZEO employs advanced photocatalysis using zeolitic materials to degrade pollutants, contributing to SDG 6 and the EU Green Deal.
Increasing CO2 emissions highlight the need for clean energy alternatives. Waste cooking oil (WCO), a by-product of vegetable oil consumption, offers a sustainable biodiesel source. VALZEO develops cost-efficient zeolitic catalysts to convert WCO into biodiesel, supporting SDG 7 and EU renewable energy goals. The project addresses pollution and energy challenges by integrating expertise to promote a circular economy and boost EU competitiveness.
Objectives:
1. Develop zeolite-based materials for water remediation and biodiesel production.
2. Use photocatalysis to degrade pollutants with sunlight.
3. Create affordable catalysts for biodiesel production.
4. Transform agro-industrial waste into valuable products.
5. Enhance research capacity and collaboration through international partnerships.
6. Engage stakeholders to scale VALZEO technologies effectively.
Impact:
• Environmental: Reduce pollution and restore ecosystems.
• Economic: Drive RHA market growth and foster innovation.
• Social: Provide scalable water and energy solutions.
• Policy: Support the EU Green Deal, SDGs, and Circular Economy Strategy.
• Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships and promote open science.
