Over the three working days, experts, researchers, doctoral students, and industry representatives will discuss the latest advances in technologies that enable progress towards cleaner water and a more sustainable future. The event is supported by the International School on Environmental Applications of Advanced Oxidation Processes (IPS-AOP), a leading scientific network in this field, comprising researchers from 25 countries. Local organization is led by Ángeles Sanromán and Marta Pazos, researchers at Cintecx, the Industrial Technologies and Processes Research Centre of the University of Vigo.
The symposium kicked off this Thursday with an opening ceremony attended by Manuel Martínez, Vice-Rector for Research at UVigo; David Patiño, Director of Cintecx; José Fariña, Director of the EE Industrial, and the two organizers. The importance of such events for hosting both experienced researchers and young professionals starting their careers was highlighted. The suitability of bringing together research groups from different countries was also emphasized, as the water issue is a global challenge that "is resolved locally plant by plant, river by river, city by city," but "does not respect borders, and neither should the science that addresses it," according to the Vice-Rector.
Both the Vice-Rector and the Director of Cintecx specifically addressed doctoral students, reminding them of the importance of participating in such events to build synergies and meet people with whom they can establish future working networks. "Ask questions even if they seem too simple; explain your thesis to someone from a different country and field," they advised.
The main objective of this event is to promote the exchange of scientific and technological knowledge in the field of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) applied to water decontamination and environmental protection. The latest advances will be presented, and scientific debate will be fostered, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among universities, research centers, and the industrial sector. The program includes plenary lectures, scientific communications, poster sessions, and round tables.
Following an introduction to IPS-AOP by Luigi Rizzo (University of Salerno) and Sixto Malato (Plataforma Solar de Almería), the scientific sessions began. Today's focus is on the fundamentals of advanced oxidation processes, while tomorrow will concentrate on their applications. The first presentation was given by André Torres-Pinto (University of Porto) on heterogeneous (photo)catalytic processes.
A unique aspect of the meeting is the connection between scientific research and industrial reality. Attendees will visit the wastewater treatment facilities and Aqualia's drinking water plant on Friday to gain firsthand knowledge of real-world applications of these technologies. The event will conclude with a round table discussion and the presentation of awards for the best poster and best short presentation.
