Innovation Interview: Water Challenge and HOFITECH Join Forces to Purify Mine Wastewater
ClearFlow, a Eurostars-funded project by Water Challenge and HOFITECH, introduces a hybrid technology that transforms toxic industrial wastewater into clean water and reusable solids. In this interview, the partners share how their collaboration began, what makes the solution unique, and how they plan to scale it across Europe and beyond.
1. ClearFlow combines electrocoagulation with ASEC technology—what makes this hybrid approach unique, and how does it improve on existing methods?
The hybrid approach of ClearFlow uniquely integrates AI-driven electrocoagulation, which efficiently removes contaminants through electrically induced coagulation, with ASEC technology, optimizing solid-liquid separation processes. This synergy significantly enhances treatment efficiency, reduces chemical consumption, minimizes sludge production, and lowers operational costs compared to traditional wastewater treatment methods. The combined process not only provides higher quality recycled water but also supports a more sustainable and circular water economy.
2. HOFITECH and Water Challenge previously worked on separate projects—what led to your collaboration, and how did you identify synergies for ClearFlow?
Our collaboration was born from mutual recognition of complementary strengths. HOFITECH brought expertise in innovative electrocoagulation technologies, while Water Challenge specialized in sophisticated solid-liquid separation and filtration technologies, including their unique ASEC solution. Through ongoing discussions and analysis of our individual projects, we identified clear synergies that could amplify the impact of our technologies when integrated. The shared vision of sustainable wastewater management made the collaboration on ClearFlow a natural and strategic fit.
3. How was the Eurostars application process with Evolution and how do you find their collaboration?
The Eurostars application process with Evolution was exceptionally streamlined and supportive. Evolution provided strategic guidance and insightful feedback throughout the preparation and submission phases. Their expertise in EU funding mechanisms significantly improved the clarity, focus, and competitiveness of our application. We found their collaboration invaluable in shaping our proposal and ensuring alignment with the rigorous expectations of Eurostars, ultimately leading to the successful award.
4. As ClearFlow enters its demonstration phase, what key technical or operational milestones are you focusing on?
Entering the demonstration phase, our primary technical milestones include validating the efficiency and reliability of the integrated ClearFlow system under real operational conditions. We aim to achieve consistently high-quality water output with reduced energy and chemical inputs. Operationally, we are concentrating on process optimization, ensuring seamless integration and scalability, and refining control automation for user-friendly operation and minimal downtime. These milestones will confirm the system’s readiness for broader commercial deployment.
5. What are your commercialization plans for ClearFlow, and how do you see it scaling across Europe and beyond?
Our commercialization strategy begins with establishing successful reference installations and case studies in key industrial markets within Western and Eastern Europe. Following proven success, we plan to scale across the broader European market, targeting sectors such as paint manufacturing, chemical processing, and other industries producing complex wastewater streams. Long-term, we envision expanding globally through strategic partnerships, licensing agreements, and joint ventures, positioning ClearFlow as a leading sustainable solution for industrial wastewater management internationally.