Wageningen University selects pumps for EU-funded BioMinE project to apply innovative biotechnology-based processes as a sustainable solution in the recovery of metals from ores and waste materials
Martijn Bijmans, of the department of environmental technology, is using Stepdos 08RC diaphragm liquid metering pumps for his research in biological sulphate reduction at low pH.
He explained: "My research focuses on developing technologies for selective metal recovery from waste and process water from the mining and metallurgical industry, by optimising sulphide production in bioreactors to precipitate insoluble metal sulphides.
"I use the Stepdos pumps to feed the reactor with the metal ions and sulphuric acid solution, as well as a KNF Neuberger Laboport N840 diaphragm vacuum pump to recycle the hydrogen gas over the reactors.
"These pumps provide a stable flow and do not need regular calibration.
"They are also compact and easy to operate, but the main beneficial feature for my work is their chemical resistance; they can withstand even high concentrations of acids that I am using.
"I have been using KNF pumps for about three years now, and they have been perfect for my applications".
Bijmans concluded: "I have also recommended these pumps to many of my colleagues, because I think KNF is pretty much the standard setter."
