Jaime Whale Obrero
Jaime Whale Obrero
University
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Company
Novozymes A/S
Project title
Nitrous oxide mapping and control in the Novozymes industrial wastewater treatment plant
Project description
The Novozymes (NVZ) wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Kalundborg (KLD)(Denmark) is the largest industrial facility in Northern Europe. It treats an organic load equivalent up to 2.5 M people in only 12,000 m3/d. Initial estimations indicated that the nitrogen removal processes in the activated sludge reactor produced a quantity of nitrous oxide (N2O) around 55 T/year. Indeed, N2O is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 298 times higher than CO2.
It is calculated that N2O is responsible of the majority of the Scope 1+2 CO2 emissions generated by the whole factory in KLD. This is the equivalent of 15,000 transatlantic flights (round trip). Novozymes is one the first companies in the world that has its net-zero targets.
The objective of this project is to combine elements of industry 4.0 and sustainability to monitor,predict and control N2O emissions using digital tools at NVZ WWTP
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
I had long heard of the industrial symbiosis in Kalundborg and, as an engineer, I was curious and eager to find a spot for myself there. My master thesis at Novozymes was a great opportunity for me to set a foot in it and Helix Lab provided the perfect framework to make it happen. By becoming a Helix Lab Fellow I could avoid the common problems of commuting or finding affordable accomodation. But even more importantly, Helix provided a support team and a community of other highly motivated students to share this experience with.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Working on an exciting and relevant project within my study field is of course the most exciting part of moving to Kalundborg. However, living with the other fellows, the social activities organised by Helix Lab and the help from their team is the icing on the cake.
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Work perspectives in Kalundborg could not be better. It is the perfect time to be an engineer here, and the network being a Helix Lab Fellow allows you to build only enlarges the possibilities. I think it is more than likely for me to start working in Kalundborg as soon as I finish my studies.