Environmental biotechnology - IM
The metabolic diversity of microorganisms is exploited in controlled processes to transform organic and inorganic molecules.
The BET sector focuses on developing microbial-based processes also in biofilm mode for energy, environmental and built sectors. In the energy sector, the research focuses on converting waste biomass into energy carriers such as methane. In wastewater treatment, we develop processes for nutrient and contaminant removal. For built environments, we study biotechnological processes for soil stabilization and the consolidation of structures within constructed settings.
Research activity is on applied projects in close collaboration with public and private stakeholders to support local businesses. Research projects are commissioned directly by regional industries or funded by cantonal and federal agencies (e.g., the Cantonal Water Protection Office, SPAAS; the Federal Office for the Environment, FOEN; the Federal Office for Agriculture, FOAG; and the Swiss Innovation Agency, Innosuisse), as well as at the European level.
At the teaching level, the Laboratory actively contributes to the Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) program within the Energy & Environment specialization. This includes teaching modules and projects related to the environmental specialization.
The BET sector focuses on developing microbial-based processes also in biofilm mode for energy, environmental and built sectors. In the energy sector, the research focuses on converting waste biomass into energy carriers such as methane. In wastewater treatment, we develop processes for nutrient and contaminant removal. For built environments, we study biotechnological processes for soil stabilization and the consolidation of structures within constructed settings.
Research activity is on applied projects in close collaboration with public and private stakeholders to support local businesses. Research projects are commissioned directly by regional industries or funded by cantonal and federal agencies (e.g., the Cantonal Water Protection Office, SPAAS; the Federal Office for the Environment, FOEN; the Federal Office for Agriculture, FOAG; and the Swiss Innovation Agency, Innosuisse), as well as at the European level.
At the teaching level, the Laboratory actively contributes to the Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) program within the Energy & Environment specialization. This includes teaching modules and projects related to the environmental specialization.
Valorization of waste biomass into energy carriers
Through anaerobic digestion, organic waste material is converted into energy carriers such as methane. This research area focuses on optimizing the process by adjusting key parameters to suit the specific characteristics of different substrates.
Wastewater treatment processes for nutrient and micropollutant removal
This research focuses on studying treatment processes for the removal of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus compounds using microbial metabolisms, often in combination with adsorption on activated carbon.
Microbial processes for the built environment
The research activities aim to develop microbial-mediated calcite precipitation processes to enhance stability and functionality in constructed environments.
Microbial biofilms
The research study the growth conditions of biofilms to develop innovative control strategies and applications.
The BET sector provides expertise in environmental engineering and biotechnology for environmental analysis and process optimization. We offer technical support and tailored solutions for the conversion of organic waste into energy carriers and for the sustainable management of resources, in compliance with current regulations.