By 2030, the world is expected to face a significant shortage of safe drinking water, according to the United Nations. While issues like drought, pollution, and population growth are often mentioned as causes, Erik Kraaijeveld and Jasper Schakel have identified another contributing factor: a lack of sustainable additives for water purification. Through their Delft-based startup CIWI, supported by the Rabo Impact Fund, they are working on a solution.
Discovery of a hidden problem
While on a work trip to Ghana, Jasper—who studied Water Purification Technology at TU Delft—came across a large but unused drinking water purification facility. The region faced a severe shortage of clean drinking water, yet the plant remained idle. Intrigued, Jasper and Erik investigated the reasons behind this. They discovered that it wasn’t just a lack of water that was the issue, but also a global shortage of sustainable, high-quality water purification additives. Surprisingly, this issue is not confined to developing countries; it’s also present in Europe and the Netherlands.
Rethinking purification
Traditional water purification often uses metal salts such as iron chloride. These compounds help remove pollutants from water by binding contaminants to the metal particles, which then sink to the bottom. However, this method has drawbacks: the production of these additives requires a lot of energy, they’re becoming increasingly scarce, and they introduce unnecessary salts and acids into the water.
To address these challenges, Jasper and Erik developed an innovative electrochemical system at TU Delft. This system produces iron hydroxide, a substance that achieves the same purification results without introducing salts or acids. The technology is efficient and easily integrates into existing water treatment systems.
From backyard experiments to startup
Their first experiments, conducted in Erik’s parents’ backyard, showed promising results. Further analysis revealed that the system’s energy consumption and raw material requirements were favorable. They decided to use ‘black steel,’ a widely available and sustainable raw material.
Encouraged by their success, they founded CIWI—Chemical Innovations for Water Industries—and began working toward scaling up their technology. Their next step involves testing their additive at an industrial wastewater treatment plant operated by Brabant Water. This plant is an ideal testing ground because it handles wastewater in a controlled environment, ensuring that the treated water isn’t consumed by humans.
Financial boost from Rabo Impact Fund
Scaling up such a project requires funding. As a young startup not yet ready for loans or investors, CIWI turned to the Rabo Impact Fund. With a donation of €25,000, they gained not only financial breathing space but also valuable recognition for their work. This funding enables them to focus on perfecting their technology while opening doors to collaborations with stakeholders and industry partners.
Supporting innovation for the future
Rick van Schie, a horticulture entrepreneur and former advisory board member of the Rabo Impact Fund, said the decision to support CIWI was unanimous. He stressed that water scarcity and pollution are critical global challenges that demand innovative solutions like CIWI’s. Startups are key players in driving innovation, and funds like the Rabo Impact Fund provide vital support to help them succeed.
With CIWI’s groundbreaking approach, the future of water purification looks cleaner and more sustainable.
Find the original article here: https://www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/nieuws/011456061/ciwi-ontwikkelt-nieuwe-schone-hulpstof-voor-waterzuivering
