Content of research

Groundwater pollution with nitrate-nitrogen has become a nationwide problem. We have developed a high-performance solid catalyst that promotes decomposition of nitrate-nitrogen in groundwater into nitrogen gas, and have also succeeded in purifying actual contaminated groundwater using a purification system incorporating the developed catalyst.
The treatment of water containing nitrate-nitrogen is predominantly a biological treatment that involves anaerobic and aerobic treatment. The equipment for that is generally large and its operation is complicated. The catalytic water purification system we have developed is very compact and does not require complicated operations, making it possible to purify contaminated water simply by passing hydrogen gas and contaminated water through a temperature-controlled reactor filled with catalyst.

Potential for social implementation

• ・Purification of nitrate-nitrogen-containing water (tap water and wastewater) in small-scale facilities where biological treatment is difficult
• ・Wastewater treatment for hydroponics facilities and plant factories

Appealing points to industry and local governments

We are also examining catalytic decomposition and adsorption removal of ammonia nitrogen.
We request your support to find users and investigate untapped applications.