Director
Members
María del Pilar Balbi
Santiago Fleite PhD
Gabriel Horowitz PhD
Gustavo Kildegaard
Mauricio Maestri PhD
External collaborators
María Sol Fraguío PhD
Julia Picabea
Stella Piovano
Gabriel Salierno PhD
Research Areas
- Multiphase reactors: characterization and monitoring
Multiphase reactors are versatile systems crucial to numerous industrial processes, where two or more distinct phases (such as gas, liquid, or solid) interact. These reactors are employed in diverse fields, from chemical and petrochemical industries to environmental engineering. The key advantage lies in their ability to facilitate complex reactions and mass transfer phenomena. Understanding and optimizing these reactors involve characterizing the distribution of phases, interfacial areas, and particle sizes. The design considerations aim to enhance efficiency, maximize yield, and minimize undesirable by-products. Multiphase reactors are indispensable tools for modern industrial processes, enabling efficient and controlled transformations of materials at various scales. - Fault detection and diagnosis in industrial processes and multiphase equipment
Fault detection and diagnosis in industrial processes is a critical aspect of ensuring operational reliability and efficiency. This process involves the continuous monitoring and analysis of system behavior to identify deviations from normal operating conditions. Advanced sensors and monitoring technologies are employed to detect anomalies in variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates. Once a deviation is detected, diagnostic algorithms come into play, aiming to pinpoint the root cause of the abnormality. This proactive approach not only helps prevent unexpected failures but also enables timely corrective actions, reducing downtime and minimizing the impact on overall production. In essence, fault detection and diagnosis serve as proactive safeguards, enhancing the robustness and stability of industrial processes. - Catalytic oxidation heterogeneous processes
Catalytic oxidation in heterogeneous processes is a pivotal method employed in various industrial applications for the efficient conversion of reactants. In this context, a solid catalyst facilitates the oxidation of a substance by promoting the reaction between the reactants and oxygen. This process is widely utilized in environmental control, such as the removal of pollutants from exhaust gases, as well as in the production of valuable chemicals. The catalyst’s surface plays a crucial role in providing active sites for the oxidation reaction to occur, and the efficiency of these processes often hinges on the careful selection and design of catalyst materials. Catalytic oxidation in heterogeneous systems stands as a cornerstone in sustainable and controlled chemical transformations, offering a cleaner and more energy-efficient alternative to traditional oxidation methods. - Industrial, domestic and agricultural wastewater treatment
Livestock wastewater treatment is a crucial aspect of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Wastewater generated from animal farming contains organic matter, nutrients, and pathogens that, if not properly managed, can pose risks to water quality. Treatment methods involve physical processes like sedimentation, biological treatments using bacteria and other microorganisms, and sometimes chemical treatments to address specific contaminants. Efficient livestock wastewater treatment not only safeguards water resources but also allows for the responsible reuse of treated water in irrigation, minimizing environmental impact. Implementation of such treatment practices is essential for maintaining the balance between agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship in livestock farming. - Lignocellulosic waste valorization
Lignocellulosic waste valorization is a sustainable approach that transforms biomass residues, such as agricultural and forestry waste, into valuable products. Lignocellulose, a complex structure found in plant cell walls, can be challenging to break down, but innovative processes like enzymatic hydrolysis or thermochemical conversion are employed to extract sugars and other valuable compounds. These can then be used to produce biofuels, biochemicals, and other bio-based materials. This approach not only addresses the issue of waste disposal but also contributes to a more circular and eco-friendly economy by turning previously underutilized biomass into valuable resources. Lignocellulosic waste valorization plays a crucial role in sustainable biorefineries, aligning with the broader goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting a more environmentally conscious approach to resource utilization.
Contact
Dr. Miryan Cassanello
Lab 238 – 1st floor
Pabellón de Industrias – Ciudad Universitaria
Tel: (+54-11) 5285-9028 / 5285-9029