This project will deliver the first continuously operating, sludge-fed UK-based pyrolysis demonstration plant.
  • DatesSeptember 2025 to June 2029
  • SponsorOfwat
  • Funded£6,200,000
  • PartnersThames Water, Helsinki Region Environmental Services (HSY), Southern Water, Stantec Ltd, Uisce Éireann, Yorkshire Water

Pyrolysis is a high temperature process which can be used to recycle sludge to maximise the value of biosolids. In the absence of oxygen, organic feedstock is thermally decomposed, resulting in energy-rich gases, condensible oils and a solid biochar, all of which can be processed and potentially used as products. This project, led by Thames Water, will deliver the first continuously operating, sludge-fed UK-based pyrolysis demonstration plant. This project seeks to prove the concept of sewage sludge pyrolysis, ensuring a circular economy and reducing the requirement for sludge to be recycled to agricultural land.

Further information

https://waterinnovation.challenges.org/winners/sewage-sludge-pyrolysis/

Siqi Xu, a WiRE CDT researcher has been working on a PhD funded by EPSRC and Thames Water, with the data and findings assisting the project team in delivering the Ofwat-funded project. https://cdtwire.com/impact-full-conference/