Browsing by Author "Ojediran, Adetunji A."
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- Advanced treatment in constructed wetlands: the role of photocatalytic modules and nanostructured filtersPublication . Ojediran, Adetunji A.; Pereira, Sofia I. A.; Rosa-Santos, Paulo; Arenas, Francisco; Dolbeth, Marina; Ntougias, Spyros; Calheiros, Cristina S. C.Background & Aim: Constructed wetlands (CWs) have emerged as a leading nature-based solution (NBS) for wastewater treatment, offering multiple benefits such as low maintenance costs, high pollutant removal efficiency, carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, and aesthetic value (Justino et al., 2023; Kadlec, 2008). However, in tourism facilities, two major challenges affect wastewater management: seasonal variability in wastewater composition and volume, and the lack of connection to centralized treatment systems (Calheiros et al., 2015). To address these issues, a decentralized CW system was developed, operating alongside a septic tank for wastewater collection. This horizontal subsurface flow CW has been operational since 2010. The study aims to integrate photocatalytic modules and nanostructured filter technologies with CW to enhance water quality for irrigation. Methods: wastewater quality characterization will be performed according to national legislation and the efficiency of the photocatalytic modules and nano filters will be assessed. Results: CW efficiency is being assessed, and ongoing studies are being carried out related to the best approach for the implementation of the photocatalytic modules and nanostructured filters technologies. Conclusions: By integrating advanced filtration and photocatalytic technologies, this research intends to develop a highly efficient, self-sustaining, and ecofriendly wastewater treatment system suitable for the tourism industry. The findings will contribute to the broader application of CW in decentralized wastewater management and sustainable water reuse strategies, most especially in a tourism facility.
- Microbial fuel cells’ integration in constructed wetlands: a mini-reviewPublication . Ojediran, Adetunji A.; Pereira, Sofia I. A.; Rosa-Santos, Paulo; Rodrigues, Ana C.; Calheiros, Cristina S. C.Background & Aims: Constructed wetlands (CW) are widely recognized as an e?ective nature-based solution for wastewater treatment with benefits that include low energy consumption, ecological enhancement, aesthetics, and carbon sequestration potential (Calheiros et al., 2015; Vymazal, 2011). As stated by Justino et al. (2023) and Vymazal (2011) CW’s performance could be enhanced through hybrid configurations, combining di?erent hydraulic flows (vertical or horizontal), macrophyte types (emergent, submerged, or floating), and hydrological regimes (subsurface or surface flow). In addition to their treatment capacity, CW are characterized by having organic matter in their substrate and surrounding wastewater, and hosting microbial communities capable of electricity generation through biocatalytic metabolism, under anaerobic conditions. This dual functionality of a CW has been demonstrated in several studies (Angassa et al., 2024; Jacobs et al., 2024). The electroactive bacteria oxidize organic matter and transfer electrons to the anode. The electrons are then transferred to the cathode region through an external resistance. This process results in the generation of bioelectricity while simultaneously treating wastewater. This is the basic principle of microbial fuel cells (MFC) operation. This study aims to critically review current research on the integration of MFCs into CW, focusing on electricity generated from the organic matter content present in the wastewater. Methods: The study proposes a systematic review of relevant scientific literature, with a particular focus on recent developments in MFC associated to CW (Colares et al., 2022). Emphasis will be placed on decentralized wastewater treatment scenarios where influent quality and quantity fluctuate, as typically observed in rural tourism facilities. Implementation challenges such as system complexity, potential toxicity from electrode materials, and pollutants accumulation will also be assessed. The review will be carried out based on scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Scopus to identify trends, technological frameworks, and knowledge gaps. Results: The review provides insights into the current state of MFC application in CW, comparing their performance in treating wastewater and assessing their energy recovery potential. Conclusion: The findings will support the development of a conceptual framework for integrating MFC into CW, enabling more sustainable, decentralized water treatment systems. This contributes directly to SDG 6 by enhancing access to safe water, SDG 11 through support for resilient and sustainable community infrastructure, and SDG 13 by promoting low-carbon, energy- generating wastewater technologies that mitigate climate impact.