This is a pilot project for a new biogas production technology with consequent reduction in emissions

CO2 Project. Launched in 2005, this project involves the experimentation of an innovative technology for capturing CO2 from combustion exhaust gases and its application in the process of anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge in the production of biogas. The main objectives are: 1) to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, 2) to use captured CO2 to significantly reduce sludge residues from the digesters of purification plants, and 3) to produce greater quantities of biogas with a higher percentage of methane content.

Several experimental activities were conducted during 2006 and 2007 at a specially built pilot plant: the tests confirmed a good level of CO2 capture and a considerable increase specifically in the production of biogas. In early 2008, experiments continued into improving the anaerobic process and assessments were made for the first industrial application in a full-scale plant. In 2009, factors were studied concerning the use of new additives in the process, to further expand the production of biogas.
This experimentation is being conducted in collaboration with Biotec sys.

Emerging pollutants.The term “Emerging Pollutants” (EP) refers to various biologically active substances of anthropic origin such as personal care products, medicines, psychoactive substances associated with drug addiction, and their associated metabolites. Endocrine disrupters constitute an unusual, across-the-board category compared to those mentioned above. The presence of these substances in waters is considered one of the most important environmental issues of the last decade. The problem is perceived both in Europe and in the United States. These pollutants enter water systems through the residues of human or animal metabolism or from being used directly in industry and agriculture. This is why Hera launched a research project in 2007 aimed at identifying the major EPs in water systems (with particular reference to natural water to be purified for drinking), developing analytical methods for determining their quantities, surveying the presence of these substances in the water systems of interest, and evaluating the effectiveness of their removal from existing treatment systems (potability and purification). Hera takes an active part in the study group “Endocrine disrupters in water intended for human consumption” (www.edinwater.com) promoted by the AMGA Foundation of Genoa. Other Italian multi-utility companies, various university departments and the Italian Institute of Health also participate in the study group. Early in 2008, collaboration with the Ferrara Research Consortium and the Mario Negri Institute began. During 2009 the laboratories of the Group acquired and tested some analytical methods and also conducted specific analyses on natural water to be purified for drinking. During 2010 the set of control parameters was defined and the control plan drawn up.

Environmental Catalysis Project.This project, launched in 2007 with the collaboration of the University of Bologna and the participation of the Italian Institute of Health, monitors the use of traditional catalytic converters to reduce NOx and dioxin emissions. During 2007, several commercial catalytic converters were characterised with excellent results, particularly for those used at the Group’s facilities. In 2008, the prototype of the new filter was designed and a sampling programme drawn up for detailed characterisation of emissions through analyses conducted by the laboratories of the Group, with the collaboration of the Italian Institute of Health. Sampling began in 2009 at the new waste-to-energy plant in Forlì and results are expected to be available in 2010.

Page updated 15 March 2011