Design and development of a new system for disposal and management of sludge: LODOGEST

Timeline: Del 01/08/2014 al 31/12/2015 
Project’s main contact person: Enrique Martínez

The object of this project consists of the design and development of a new system which avoids the accumulation of sand, slime and clay in water reservoirs that are used for irrigation, for the accumulation of sanitary water or, in the majority of cases, for the generation of electrical energy. The problem to solve is when the sediments reach a level of approximately two metres they advance towards the mouth of the plant, filling it to the brim and plugging the flow of water.

The system is complex since it is not possible to support the whole weight of the proposed solution on the floor of the reservoir which has been waterproofed by means of plastic membranes and geotextiles. This would produce cracks and leaks on the surface. The proposed solution is based on a mechanical action with abrasive-resistant elements, and a hydraulic action which helps to breakdown the surface of the mud pile and to reduce the percentage of sediment in suspension.

Project indicators
Number of women working in the project: 1
Number of persons working in the project: 12

* Co-financed by CDTI and the Financial Mechanism of the European Economic Area 2009-2014 (EEA GRANTS)

eea grants