Problem: "P-Agro Minerals develops and manufactures an environmentally friendly mineral material called Letonite, specifically designed to facilitate phosphorus recovery from wastewater and for its later use as fertilizer for agricultural lands. We have identified our primary customers as SME industrial wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) operating in the beer, metal, and meat production sectors. Customers face the pressing issue of high phosphorus (P) concentrations in their wastewater, lacking the resources to enhance their water treatment processes. They are actively seeking solutions that can be integrated into their existing treatment processes. Our customer's responsibility is to ensure that the effluent water from their WWTP is consistently purified to meet specific P level regulations mandated by law. We conducted over 35 client interviews and several pain points were identified. Currently available treatment alternatives are prohibitively expensive for achieving full removal of P. This cost burden places a significant financial strain on companies. Existing purification methods are limited, unable to effectively operate at high/low temperatures, hindering the P reduction process. Failing to reach the minimum allowable P levels in the discharged wastewater results in annual penalties for treatment companies, adding to their financial burden. Soil fertilizer industry is another market for Letonite material. After P recovery, Letonite can be integrated in the soil without additional treatment and become a rich nutrient source for plants. We have conducted several client interviews as well as market research and identified a market demand for affordable and sustainable fertilizers. Phosphorus is a finite and non-renewable resource, primarily obtained from phosphate rock mining, and its reserves are unevenly distributed across the world. As demand for phosphorus-based fertilizers and other products increases with growing population and agricultural needs, future shortages are predicted to occur, leading to higher prices and potential challenges in maintaining food security and sustainable development."
Solution: The innovative Letonite mineral material, which recovers phosphorus from wastewater, can be defined as a natural mineral substance possessing high phosphorus adsorption abilities. Its novelty lies in its manufacturing method and potential application in P recovery and use as fertilizer.
USP: Letonite, a versatile mineral, offers a unique proposition for wastewater treatment and agriculture due to its high phosphorus absorption abilities. Its powder form serves as an effective coagulant in water, while the rock-like form is useful for filtration. This mineral also assists in pH regulation, making it beneficial for agricultural use. Owing to its high purity, Letonite increases process efficiency, minimizes risks, and guarantees consistent performance.