The AFEM Project (Advanced Functionalized Electrospun Membranes for water treatment) has received funding under the Unite! Seed Fund Initiative for Research.
Aiming to develop advanced functionalized electrospun membranes for water treatment, the project intends to propose a new technology for the design of multifunctional membranes for the removal of micropollutants during filtration processes. This will be achieved by using electrospinning, a unique technique that allows the production of nanofibers and nonwoven membranes from polymer solutions through the application of high electrostatic forces.
The AFEM project will produce results that will advance research in the field of water filtration membranes, while also fostering collaboration among three Unite! Universities leading to the formation of a new partnership with specific skills suitable for participating in future EU funding calls.
By combining existing expertise in electrospinning and membrane fabrication (Prof. Alessandra Vitale, PoliTo), catalytic membranes and catalyst modification (Prof. Markus Engelhart, TUDa) and detection of fouling propensity and connected counteracting measures (Prof. Nicolas Hengl, UGA), AFEM aims to develop advanced functionalized electrospun membranes for wastewater treatment.
“I am glad and honored that our AFEM project will be funded by the Unite! alliance. The project will advance research in the field of water filtration membranes, while also enhancing collaboration among three European universities. Additionally, it will provide young researchers with the opportunity to work in the multidisciplinary field of water treatment, which is essential for addressing the global challenges of water scarcity, pollution, and the need for sustainable development.”