Comprehensive test programme to determine the efficacy of advanced thermal conversion technologies in removing microplastics and substances of concern from sewage sludge.
  • DatesOctober 2024 to June 2027
  • SponsorUKWIR
  • Funded£5 million
  • PartnersAtkinsRealis, Aston University, Imperial College London, STOIC Options, UKCEH

It is recognised in the UK and across the world that the treatment of sewage sludge and the subsequent recovery of biosolids to agriculture is rapidly changing. Current practice in the UK is that over 85% of the biosolids produced are recovered to agriculture. However, various factors driving change including the presence of microplastics and other chemical substances in the recovered biosolids. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a better understanding of these issues. This project focuses on enhancing knowledge and providing evidence to discern the ability of ATC technologies to remove microplastics and other chemical substances and assess these technologies’ wider environmental impact when using sewage sludge as a feedstock.

Progress update

Phase 1 report is available through the UKWIR website. Phase 2 testing is currently underway.

Further information

UKWIR project reports.