Innovation in Water

The Application of Process Intensification in the Water Industry

Reference: 15/RG/10/8
ISBN: 184057 560 6
Published Date: 13/04/2015

Process Intensification (PI) means a significant reduction in size of a unit operation or simplification of processes by combining process steps, creating new technologies with significantly lower capital and running costs and improved sustainability PI is now considered one of the most promising development areas for modern chemical engineering and has been applied in wider industry since the 1970s.

The aim of this project was to analyse the main processes used in the water industry, with a view to suggesting replacement by intensified process technologies. A range of technologies have been identified, which potentially have application in enhancing the performance, technically and commercially, of the 'conventional' water and wastewater flow-sheet. More novel technologies that enhance mass transfer and increase chemical reaction kinetics may offer opportunities in, inter-alia, meeting anticipated regulatory objectives with significant impact, particularly in water treatment - and potential applications in wastewater, sludge and odour treatment.

Indicators of Water Sector Innovation: Information Tool, Summary Report

Reference: 14/RG/10/7
ISBN: 1 84057 719 3
Published Date: 03/04/2014

This report describes the development of the innovation indicators tool on behalf of the Water Sector Innovation Leadership Group.

The tool aims to provide a picture of the level of innovation in the UK water sector. The tool is hosted at www.WaterSectorInnovation.org and provides a web-based interface to innovation indicators submitted by different organisations that make up the UK water sector.

The report describes the initial development of the indicators, the organisations from which data was requested and received, and makes recommendations for the required actions to make the tool a useful resource for presenting a comprehensive and robust picture of the level of innovation within the UK Water Sector.

Research and Innovation Mapping Study for the UK Water Research and Innovation Framework

Reference: 11/RG/10/6
ISBN: 1 84057 599 9
Published Date: 01/08/2011

This report was commissioned as part of work towards a UK Water Research & Innovation Framework (UKWRIF) in collaboration with UKCDS and LWEC. It comprises a high level overview and synthesis of recommendations from key policy and research reports relevant to the UK's potential contribution to UK and global water security.
The team of 14 water experts from industry and academia who contributed to the report found evidence to suggest increasing concern in water security and an associated need for innovative and affordable solutions. The complex issues cover a wide range of political, social, environmental and technical challenges.
Water security in the UK is significantly impacted by our imported, global water footprint and is inextricably linked to food and energy security and long term urban planning. A UK framework providing leadership and direction for delivering research and innovation in the 6 priority sectors identified in this report is recommended to increase UK water security and economic growth opportunities in the global market.