Solvent2Energy

Introduction

The Solevent2Energy project aims to demonstrate a novel integrated system that converts solvents released as waste from flexographic printing into green gas through bio-treatment. The patented technology is unique thanks to it having been developed in cooperation with the University of Valencia and supported by two Horizon Europe research and innovation grants in 2010.

Patents and Licensing

These patents, jointly owned by Pure Air Solutions and the University, have granted exclusive commercial licensing rights across Europe and the Americas since 2015. The core of this groundbreaking technology lies in its bioreactor (anaerobic bioscrubber), referred to as ‘BONCUS’, which can be integrated into an existing production process. Notably, this system achieves a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in relative terms, marking a significant leap forward in sustainability.

Current Industry Challenges

Currently, the flexographic printing industry operates as an energy-consuming procedure that produces pollutive air waste from solvents released during the printing and ink drying processes. In present circumstances, the solvent waste is disposed of via Regenerative Thermal Oxidation (RTO), which contributes to air pollution due to the absence of alternative solutions, on top of consuming significant amounts of energy.

Innovative Solutions

Thanks to the innovative BONCUS technology, the industry can now capitalize on these solvents, primarily bioethanol, in two ways:

1. They can be utilized for printing purposes.
2. They can serve as an energy source for production processes.

This approach also eliminates the need for waste air incineration.

Commercialization Pathway

The commercialization pathway chosen by the project is to implement this technology at the Trioworld Harlingen facility, generating 700,000 m³ of biogas annually from what is considered ‘waste air’. The elimination of air incineration is a technological upgrade that would directly improve air quality for the already sensitive Wadden area.

Contribution to European Objectives

The project will contribute to the European objectives to reduce GHG emissions and is in line with the RePowerEU Plan. Cleaning of the air before emitting it to the atmosphere is regulated by EU directives 2010/75/EU that prevent photochemical smog.

Expected Impact

This technological improvement should have a considerable impact on improving air quality in the areas where flexo companies choose to implement it. The company aims to grow around 5 systems per year between 2025-2030 and anticipates increasing its personnel base by 10 more persons. The company is already commercially present in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Spain.