SHORT SUMMARY OF SCIENTIFIC LIFE
Àlex Gaona Soler (Barcelona, 1997) has a degree in Chemical Engineering (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 2019) and MSc in Biological and Environmental Engineering (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 2021).
During his MSc studies, he focused on wastewater treatment through a simulation-based study with GENOCOV. This research explored the implementation of the nitrite pathway in a conventional A2O wastewater treatment plant and the associated N2O emissions. In 2021 he further investigated wastewater treatment processes by implementing an ASM2d model to describe the behavior of a Side-Stream Fermenter (SSF) for an A2/O configuration. This work is part of the FOSPHOROUS project, where he also contributes by developing models in Python and OpenModelica and enhancing methods for selecting multiple criteria decision-making. Additionally, he has experience collaborating with AERIS on various projects.
Currently, he is enrolled in a PhD in Environmental Science and Technology, focusing on developing and implementing mathematical models to optimize wastewater treatment plants.
Àlex’s current research interests are:
- Study the impact of a Side-Stream Fermenter (SSF) for an Anaerobic/Anoxic/Aerobic (A2O) configuration.
- Optimization of the minimum requirements of COD in a conventional Anaerobic/Anoxic/Aerobic (A2O) WWTP.
- Implementation of the nitrite pathway in WWTP.
- Mathematical modelling and optimization of bioprocesses (MATLAB, OpenModelica, Python).
- Enhancing methods for selecting multiple criteria and conducting a thorough sensitivity analysis to understand the impact of criteria weights on decision-making.
PUBLICATIONS
- Nitrite pathway in A2/O WWTPs: Modelling organic matter reduction, operational cost and N2O emissions. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.137453