Research Tim Croes

Abstract

The ReWoW project proposes a disruptive, high-risk/high-gain approach to transform digestate, the complex byproduct of anaerobic digestion, from an environmental burden into a valuable feedstock for a new bioeconomy. Currently underutilized and often treated as the Waste of Waste, digestate's untapped potential is hindered by its heterogeneity, recalcitrance, and regulatory constraints. ReWoW introduces a novel valorization pathway through the development of Modular Adaptive Fermentation (MAF), a next-generation bioprocess that combines microbial bioconversion with artificial intelligence (AI)-driven optimization. ReWoW will design and validate a modular system that integrates advanced pretreatments, sequential fermentations, and real-time monitoring to convert digestate into three model bioproducts: biosurfactants, aroma compounds, and enhanced soil amendments. A dual-layer AI tool will support the MAF platform, enabling real-time modelling, decision-making, and process control. The project also embeds a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework to ensure environmental, economic, and social performance from the outset. By merging expertise in microbiology, engineering, environmental sciences, AI, economics, and policy, ReWoW sets the foundation for a transformative digestate-based biorefinery model. If successful, results will support new business models, regulatory advancements, and industrial applications, repositioning digestate as a cornerstone of an alternative circular bioeconomy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Croes Tim

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project