Waste Treatment

This programme focuses on the development of new analytical tools and the characterisation of microorganisms that participate in biotransformation processes.  Many of the conventional analytical tools are too slow for intervention into wastewater processes.  Furthermore treatment now includes nitrogen and phosphorous remediation, as well as carbon.  Sustainability issues have created a demand for more effective technologies.

 

Outputs from this research include:

  • Development of microbial fuel cells that harness energy simultaneously with waste remediation
  • Identification and isolation of new organisms more effective at nitrogen remediation
  • Development of five minute toxicity test to screen trade waste discharges
  • Development of a two hour biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) assay, allowing plant efficiency monitoring

List of Projects:

 

- Multi-analyte environment sensors
- SciTOX Prototype Rapid DTA (direct toxicity assessment) and BOD

 

Publications:

 

Pasco, N; Tizzard, A; Hay, J. (2006).  Whole-cell based biosensors.  Biosensors: Methods Express.  Scion Publishing Ltd (UK).  Invited chapter in preparation.

 

Lincoln Ventures Ltd (1997).  Method and apparatus for measuring use of a substrate in a microbially catalysed reaction.  International Patent PCT/NZ97/00158.