HORIZON EUROPE NANAQUA Project: Application, effects, and destination of nanomaterials in water treatment.

NANAQUA is emerging as a leader in addressing the global water crisis, leveraging nanotechnology and nano(functionalized) materials (NM) for cutting-edge water treatment solutions. By addressing the societal challenge posed by contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), NANAQUA addresses the risks that these contaminants, including endocrine-disrupting compounds, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and pharmaceuticals, pose to freshwater resources and ecosystems.

With more than 500 European monitoring sites reporting concentrations of contaminants harmful to aquatic life, the urgency of finding effective solutions is clear. NANAQUA's approach transcends current wastewater treatment systems, which inadequately remove CECs, by integrating nanotechnology into (photo)chemical and biological degradation systems.

NANAQUA's solution also involves the development of smart nanosensors to monitor water quality in real time and generate information on the toxicity of nanomaterials and CECs. This strategy promises a comprehensive improvement in water purification efficiency, aligning with the EU Water Reuse Regulation and supporting sustainable resource management. The project establishes the first European doctoral training network dedicated to the integration of NMs into water treatment, training 15 professionals through an international, cross-sector, and interdisciplinary research program.

This unique combination of training in (bio)chemical water treatment, materials science, (eco)toxicology, and environmental sustainability assessment is essential to becoming experts in this field, providing highly valuable skills for the labor market.

From an environmental perspective, NANAQUA's long-term impact includes improved water treatment, the reduction of harmful CECs in aquatic systems, and thus the protection of human health and the promotion of pollution-free habitats. Economically, it aligns with EU regulations, promising reduced costs, energy use, and job growth in the water treatment sector.