Project description
A sustainable solution to Europe’s phosphorus challenge
The EU faces a critical challenge with 90 % of its phosphorus supply relying on imported rock phosphate, prompting concerns about sustainability and security. Additionally, a staggering 90 % of used phosphorus is permanently lost. In this context, the EIC-funded SusPhos project offers a game-changing solution. By converting phosphorus-rich waste streams, such as sewage sludge ashes and struvite, into valuable phosphoric acid, SusPhos serves the fertiliser, flame retardant, wastewater treatment and construction industries. This initiative will establish Europe’s self-sufficient phosphorus supply, enabling the flame retardant and fertiliser sectors to embrace safer alternatives while reducing CO2 emissions. By 2026, SusPhos is projected to displace 20 % of conventionally produced phosphates, significantly contributing to a sustainable future.
Objective
The EU has listed phosphorus (P) and phosphate rock as a critical raw material due to supply uncertainties related to 90% imported rock phosphate imports. 90% of used P is irreversibly lost. Our solution converts P rich waste streams, e.g. sewage sludge ashes (SSA) and struvite, into phosphoric acid used in the fertilizer and flame retardant industries and chemicals for wastewater treatment and the construction industry. SusPhos will create Europe's independent supply of P. Flame retardants (FR) and fertilizer industries will readily consume these high-value products. Halogenated FRs are toxic and the manufacturers are switching from halogen-based ingredients to phosphates derived from rock phosphate. There are no methods that can upcycle P-rich SSA for direct use by FR and fertilizer manufacturers that use 3.4M t of phosphates worth €1.84B. By 2026, SusPhos will earn €43.9M p.a. with the potential to displace 20% of conventionally produced phosphates and eliminate 3.9M tonnes of CO2.
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.3.1 - The European Innovation Council (EIC) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-EIC-ACC-BF - HORIZON EIC Accelerator Blended FinanceCoordinator
1506 DR Zaandam
Netherlands
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.