With increase in population and advances in industrial, agricultural and household demands, provision of clean non-potable water is essential. There is need for robust, efficient, cost effective, and impactful technology for water conservation and reuse (Project Title: METRIS). We propose to develop, through collaborative research between Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (AEA) and University of Westminster (UOW), a novel method with clear benefits for wastewater treatment. The novel method is based on microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology. This technology uses naturally occurring bacteria in biofilm-based reactors to treat wastewater, mainly, and also generate a small amount of electricity. The treated water can be used by communities where water is scarce for non-potable purposes e.g. irrigation or reused by industries e.g. for cleaning or cooling. This project addresses the challenge of water scarcity and water quality in Egypt, creates opportunities for innovative collaborative research, and has the potential to positively impact the economy and social welfare of both countries by mitigating pollution of water bodies from contaminated wastewater while providing water for reuse. It lays down the foundations for strong collaboration between AEA and UOW, with their complementary expertise in engineering and science for novel, innovative and impactful research through scientific exchange, social mobility, and improved economy.

METRIS through University of Westminster website

Metris International conference - 2019