Development of MNPs with anchor functionalization by chemical precipitation in a controlled chemical and hydro-dynamical environment. A reactor with adequate mixing nozzle and pumping system can be used in order to achieve mixing of the precursor solutions providing a control on the size and shape of the NPs as well as of their dispersion and the final functionalization.
In depth | purenano-h2020
PureNano In depth
Why we need PureNano?
Surface finishing treatment bears a significant process applied in many industrial sectors with the view to extend the life of metallic components providing surface properties and functionalities via the application of coatings using electo and electroless plating baths.
However, this continuous replenishment of chemical compounds leads to accumulation of by-products and decomposition product that burden the bath from its proper operation. Every year a total amount of 300.000 tons of hazardous waste is produced per year (an average of 16 tonnes per installation).
How PureNano works?
PureNano proposes an innovative, low cost, sustainable method for purification of plating baths which will lead to a significant extension of their life that will have as a result decrease of operation expenditures of plating shops, decrease of environmental risks from transportation of spent baths and increase of process efficiency and products quality.
It is based in the timely treatment of plating baths with functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), that can absorb in their surface the contaminants and chemical species that are accumulated.
PureNano Concept
PureNano Technologies
PureNano
Technologies
Functionalization of nanoparticles
Development of surface modification of NPs. The PureNano solution is based on two characteristics of the MNPs, amphiphilic character and extremely high surface area. These make the particles usable for the capture, removal and recovery of contaminants from electrolytes in a single step. Surface modification of MNPs with a suitable stabilizer, allows to disperse them conveniently in aqueous solution.
Design, development and optimization of purification process
Recycling & Purification process and multiscale modelling. The functionalized MNPs will be utilized in order to remove contaminants from plating baths. The process will take place in situ and will consist of two steps. The first step concerns the treatment of the bath with the suitable functionalized MNPs in the plating tank and second the removal/separation of the particles from the plating solution. The process will be supported and validated by multiscale modelling to evaluate the operational conditions of the purification procedure.
Safe disposal of MNPs
A. Recovery of metals and MNPs reuse The recovery of metals such as Au, Pt, Ni, Cu, directly from the MNPs can be achieved through electrolytic processes. B. Water purification MNPs can be a cheap and easy solution for non potable water decontamination by removing of heavy metals (mainly lead, arsenic, iron and copper). C. Integration in concrete formulations The addition of used MNPs to self-compacting concrete can lead to enhancement of its compressive strength .
PureNano Phases
Phase 1 (WP2&3)
The development of a one stage phase (formation with simultaneous functionalization) of MNPs. Formulation and functionalization of magnetic NPs. The target is the development of a one stage phase (formation with simultaneous functionalization) that will provide low cost materials. The PureNano project aims to deliver appropriate MNPs or MNP aggregates of adequate specific surface area and proper functionalization targeting the capturing of specific contaminants based on the type of the bath, that will allow their efficient mix with the plating baths.
Phase 2 (WP5)
The development of sub assembly (module) for the efficient purification of the plating baths utilizing the MNPs. Development of sub assembly (module) for the efficient purification of the plating baths utilizing the magnetic NPs. The model of formulated magnetic NPs will be used as base for optimizing time, efficiency and cost of the process using a holistic MDO approach. All this information will set the basis for the development of the engineering documentation (conceptual, basic and detailed engineering) as well as the further construction of the module and its integration with the separation of magnetic particles system. Furthermore, study of the safe recovery, utilization and/or disposal of the removed substances including the agglomerated nanoparticles will be made.
Phase 3 (WP6)
Validation/demonstration activities and the further optimization of the purification process in the pilot lines (electroless and electrodeposition). Validation/demonstration activities. Each company will provide a pilot line (electroless and electrodeposition), where the developed systems will be integrated in order to validate and further optimize the purification process of different electroless and electrolytic formulations.
Phase 4 (WP1,7,8&9)
LCA and LCC analysis, compliance with standards and regulations as well as innovation management, exploitation and dissemination activities. This phase will run in parallel to the other three phases and will cover all aspects related to the fast adoption of PureNano results from the market. These concerns LCA and LCC analysis, compliance with standards and regulations as well as innovation management, exploitation and dissemination activities.