VivaPhores · Vivianite-Driven Phosphorus Recovery from Wastewater for Sustainable Circular Systems

VivaPhores aims to develop and optimize an innovative, circular solution for P recovery from WWTPs, focusing on the controlled formation of vivianite—a valuable iron phosphate mineral with applications in agriculture and advanced technologies, including battery production. P is an essential yet finite resource, and its excessive release into aquatic environments leads to eutrophication. By shifting from conventional P removal to resource-oriented P recovery, VivaPhores contributes to closing the nutrient loop and advancing the EU Circular Economy Action Plan.The project combines experimental research and computational modelling to design and optimize vivianite-based recovery pathways. Laboratory- and pilot-scale trials will investigate key operational parameters—such as Fe/P molar ratios and pH conditions—within anaerobic digestion and return activated sludge (RAS) streams.Comparative analyses of EBPR and non-EBPR sludge will be conducted to assess recovery potential under varying WWTP configurations. These data will inform the development of a predictive model for vivianite crystallization and accumulation, supporting the scaling-up and techno-economic evaluation of the proposed solution.To ensure practical relevance, a secondment with ACCIONA, a leading non-academic partner in water technologies, will enable real-world testing of the developed system in full-scale infrastructure. This collaboration fosters two-way knowledge transfer between academic research and industry practice—supporting mutual capacity building, feedback-driven innovation, and technology readiness advancement.VivaPhores will deliver a transferable approach to sustainable phosphorus management, reducing dependency on phosphate rock imports and supporting EU policy objectives on resource efficiency, clean water, and environmental protection. Its integrated methodology and cross-sector engagement offer a replicable model for circular innovation in wastewater treatment and resource recovery.