In the quest for sustainable water management solutions, Membion, a German innovator in wastewater recycling, has recently secured a significant €5 million investment. This financial boost, led by TechVision Fonds (TVF) and DeepTech & Climate Fonds (DTCF), marks a crucial step for Membion in addressing the escalating demands for improved water treatment methods globally.
Situated in Roetgen, Membion has been at the forefront of advancing membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology. Its patented modules offer a compelling solution for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment, promising to elevate water quality while curbing operational costs. With this recent investment, Membion plans to broaden its market presence, enhance production capabilities, and further refine its innovative product features.
Dr. Klaus Vossenkaul, CEO of Membion, articulates a common challenge faced by wastewater treatment facilities: the need for higher water quality amidst limited expansion space. Membion’s MBR modules present a transformative solution, significantly reducing the bacterial load by a factor of 1,000 compared to traditional plants and requiring 75% less space. Additionally, these modules employ a novel aeration technique, reducing energy consumption for filter flushing by over 90% compared to standard MBR plate modules.
The inception of Membion’s cutting-edge technology is the result of years of research and development by founders Dr. Klaus Vossenkaul and Dirk Volmering. Their unique hollow fiber MBR modules demonstrate remarkable energy efficiency and operational cost savings, addressing a crucial need in the competitive and eco-conscious market.
Membion’s technology arrives at a critical time. The impending introduction of a “fourth purification stage” in wastewater treatment, aimed at filtering out microplastics, antibiotic-resistant germs, pathogens, and drug residues, underscores the need for more advanced solutions. Membion’s system, designed to handle these emerging contaminants, eliminates the requirement for secondary clarification found in conventional systems.
The company’s state-of-the-art production plant exemplifies the harmonious blend of automation and environmental consideration. Focusing on municipal and industrial water treatment plant operators, Membion is well-equipped to meet the increasing demands of urban growth and intensified water purification needs.
Björn Lang from TVF Management GmbH views Membion as a future leader in a dynamic international market. The company’s mission to revolutionize wastewater treatment aligns with the demands of future generations, aiming for economic viability alongside environmental responsibility.
The market for MBR technology is anticipated to surge to nearly seven billion US dollars by 2030. This projection indicates a robust growth trajectory for the sector, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions like Membion’s in addressing global water quality challenges.
Dr. Elisabeth Schrey of DTCF highlights the necessity of innovative approaches in both established and new industrial water applications. Membion’s energy-saving water recycling vision aligns with the goal of responsible water resource management, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Founders Dr. Klaus Vossenkaul and Dirk Volmering, both process engineering alumni of RWTH Aachen University, bring over two decades of industry experience to Membion. They emphasize the growing necessity for high-quality water against the backdrop of climate change, water scarcity, and intensive agriculture. With stringent quality standards enforced under German and European legislation, Membion’s patented technology provides an efficient solution for wastewater treatment plants facing the challenge of compliance.
In conclusion, Membion’s innovative approach to wastewater recycling positions it as a pivotal player in the movement towards more sustainable and efficient water management. The company’s recent funding will enable it to expand its impact, furthering its mission of delivering cutting-edge, environmentally conscious water treatment solutions. As Membion continues to innovate and expand, it stands as a beacon of hope in the quest for sustainable water management solutions in an increasingly water-stressed world.
