From May 11th to June 11th, 2024, our Sustainability Technologist Edgar Contreras undertook a secondment at the ENEA Casaccia Research Center in Italy, as part of the CHEMPGM project.

ENEA is the National Agency for New Technologies, Energy, and Sustainable Economic Development in Italy. It is a public body focused on research, technological innovation, and providing advanced services to enterprises, public administration, and citizens in the areas of energy, the environment, and sustainable economic development.

The CHEMPGM project aims to provide a profound understanding of the chemistry and mechanisms involved in exploiting Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) from secondary materials, ultimately enhancing and securing the PGMs value chain. The project also fosters knowledge exchange across the knowledge triangle of universities, Research and Technology organisations, and SMEs in the fields of chemistry, material science, engineering, mineral processing, and metallurgy. This initiative includes secondments between organisations to maximise knowledge generation and exchange.

For Edgar, this period was dedicated to implementing the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to validate the environmental benefits of synthesising catalysts for Dry Methane Reforming (DMR) using recycled platinum (Pt). Experiencing the synthesis procedures firsthand, conducted by the expert team at ENEA, was immensely valuable for the success of LOMARTOV’s duties within the project.

These kinds of exchanges between research organisations, universities, and SMEs are invaluable for fostering collaboration, knowledge transfer, and innovation. Edgar’s experience at the ENEA Casaccia Research Center not only advanced his professional development but also enriched the CHEMPGM project with new insights and practical applications. Such secondments enhance the integration of cutting-edge research with real-world applications, ultimately driving progress in sustainable technologies and strengthening the global scientific community.

More details about our team members’ secondments coming soon!!