Decentralized Treatment Technologies
Resource Recovery Machine
The NEWgenerator is a resource recovery machine that harvests nutrient fertilizers, renewable energy, and clean water from human or food wastes. The machine achieves a high level of waste treatment through the use of state-of-the-art anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) technology. Extensive pathogen destruction is achieved to ensure safe sanitation. This robust, low-energy and off-the-grid technology is compact and flexible, and enables a number of treatment and resource reuse applications.
Ultrafiltration membranes provide an absolute barrier with nano-sized pores for pathogen removal and safe dewatering. Colloidal organic matter is also removed. After membrane filtration, the permeate is subjected to electrochlorination for further polishing and to ensure microbial stability of the finished water during storage (similar to treatment for drinking water). The water meets WHO water reuse guidelines.
Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactor
At the core of the NEWgenerator is the anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR). This technology merges the benefits of anaerobic treatment with the reliability of membrane filtration. Below are some of the advantages gained from these two technologies:
Anaerobic vs. aerobic treatment
Low-energy input ● energy recovery (biogas) ● potential for net-positive wastewater treatment ● passive design ● potential for nutrient recovery ● low-carbon footprint
AnMBR vs. typical anaerobic digestion
Resilience ● handles transient loading (shock, start/stop) ● absolute safety barrier ● high-rate operation while handling solids and particulates ● superior performance ● compact design / small footprint
Design and Applications
· Unique 4-into-1 design allows four quadcons to combine into one standard 20-ft ISO intermodal container.
· Small footprint. 8 ft L x 5 ft W x 8 ft H
· Flood resilient (compared to conv. in-ground solutions)
Forward Operating Bases
· Wastewater management (off-grid, energy positive/neutral)
· Water recycling
· Food waste management
· Waste to energy
· Significant reduction of freshwater and fuel consumption
· Help to steer towards Net Zero targets for bases
· Ensure sanitation and hygiene for soldiers
The NEWgenerator has succesfully been tested in India, South Africa, and the United States. The field trials have helped in the development of the technology and making the system more robust to myriad environments.