NG Nordic Secures European Patent for Groundbreaking Sulfate Removal Innovation

Industries such as paper, mining, and metal refining generate wastewater that often contains high levels of sulfates. The release of such wastewater into natural environments like rivers, lakes, and seas presents a growing concern, as sulfates are known to contribute to eutrophication, harm ecosystems and reduce biodiversity. 

At the same time, there is growing pressure on these industries to recycle process water instead of relying on fresh water, especially in water-intensive operations. Existing wastewater treatment methods for sulphate removal often rely on chemical precipitation, which typically results in large volumes of chemical sludge. This sludge is difficult to handle and dispose of due to its high water content.

Current methods are too expensive that it becomes unsustainable for the emitting industries to remove sulfates, They are solving one problem, e.g. removing sulfate but creates another problem e.g. generating huge amounts of waste.

Therefore, there remains a clear need for a more cost efficient, sustainable, and low-waste method for sulfate removal.

NG Nordic has now developed a breakthrough solution for purifying sulfate-rich wastewater. The patented method enables the recovery of both sulfur and hydrogen in pure form alternatively NG Nordic can produce sodium sulfate as the product. This is achieved using sulfate-reducing microorganisms, an electron donor, and essential nutrient sources such as phosphate and nitrogen.

The innovation combines techniques originating from different fields of expertise, which set it apart from state of the art and makes it possible to produce products with monetary value and conserve energy in the process.

The European Patent Office has officially approved the patent application, marking a significant milestone for NG Nordic’s innovation in sustainable water treatment.

This new method holds great potential for industries seeking both environmental compliance and cost-effective operations, while minimizing waste and energy use. 

 

Further information:

Kalle Saarimaa, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Industrial Waste Services, NG Nordic

kalle.saarimaa@fortum.com, p. +358 41 503 1337

 

NG Nordic

NG Nordic is a leading provider of circular solutions and environmental services, tackling the urgent challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. Through reuse, collection, recycling, and depollution NG Nordic transforms waste into valuable resources and removes hazardous substances from circulation – scaling access to circular raw materials, decarbonize society and help protect natural ecosystems. ​

​With strong presence across the Nordics, and in Poland and the UK, NG Nordic is a vital part of the Nordic industrial infrastructure handling 4.4 million of waste annually through 90 facilities and sites. With 3,400 employees, generating EUR 1,3 billion in revenue and provide tailored customer solutions across the entire value chain.​