#South Korea #Seoul #AquaFortus #GS E&C #ABX Technology

Aquafortus and GS E&C Collaboration

Aquafortus, recognized globally for its innovative advancements in brine concentration technology, has recently initiated an impactful collaboration with GS Engineering & Construction Corp. This partnership aims to revolutionize wastewater treatment specifically designed for the burgeoning secondary battery industry in the Republic of Korea.

Addressing a Growing Concern

As the production of secondary batteries accelerates worldwide, the associated wastewater streams become a significant environmental concern. These streams present complex treatment challenges due to their high salinity, often reaching total dissolved solids concentrations of up to 150,000 mg/l. Furthermore, the presence of numerous dissolved contaminants makes traditional treatment methods, such as membrane filtration and thermal processes, inefficient.

In regions where water is scarce and industrial regulations are stringent, companies must adopt cost-effective and energy-efficient technologies for wastewater treatment that also support water reclamation efforts. Aquafortus' proprietary ABX™ technology emerges as a timely solution to these pressing industrial water challenges.

Transformative Technology

The ABX™ system is a pioneering, non-thermal desalination platform that specializes in treating high-salinity industrial wastewater. Unlike conventional membrane systems, which can struggle under high total dissolved solid conditions, ABX™ utilizes a patented absorbent chemistry designed to selectively extract water from brine and concentrate the salts. This unique process not only facilitates the recovery of clean water for reuse but also minimizes energy consumption and overall operating costs.

With this collaboration, Aquafortus and GS E&C plan to embark on a pilot project in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do. The initiative seeks to treat about 80 cubic meters of secondary battery wastewater per day, allowing them to showcase the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of the ABX™ technology in real-time conditions.

Strengthening Market Presence

This agreement signifies Aquafortus' official entrance into the South Korean market, establishing a robust partnership with one of Asia's foremost engineering and construction firms. It’s a strategic move that highlights both companies’ commitment to addressing one of the most urgent water-quality challenges in the industrial sector.

Hoshang Subawalla, CEO of Aquafortus, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, "The rapid growth of the secondary battery sector necessitates next-generation wastewater solutions that can perform effectively under high salinity conditions. By collaborating with GS E&C, we aim to present a scalable and energy-efficient approach to industrial water reuse that not only fosters economic development but also emphasizes environmental responsibility."

Future Prospects

Through this collaboration, Aquafortus establishes itself as a leading solution provider for intricate industrial wastewater treatment streams. By expanding its international footprint, the company strengthens its position in providing advanced brine concentration and water recovery technologies.

The pilot project in Korea is anticipated not only to showcase the technical and economic viability of ABX™ technology but also to pave the way for extensive commercial applications across Korea’s expanding battery manufacturing landscape.

About Aquafortus

Aquafortus is a recognized player in the clean tech industry, particularly known for its efficient brine concentration technology that enables the recovery of pure water and valuable minerals from hypersaline flows. The company’s patented ABX™ platform operates with minimal energy use, boasting costs that can be up to 70% lower than competing desalination techniques, making it an attractive choice for various industries worldwide.

About GS Engineering & Construction

GS Engineering & Construction Corp., headquartered in Seoul, is an esteemed global engineering and construction company specializing in large-scale projects in infrastructure, energy, and environmental sectors. The company continues to broaden its offerings in industrial advancement and sustainability solutions as it partners globally in transformative projects.