P-TRAP – Reducing diffuse phosphorus input to surface waters

In 2019 the EU Marie Sklodowska-Curie Training Network P-TRAP has been launched and is now approaching its end. The project has been targeting the diffuse flux of phosphate (P) into surface waters, i.e. the problems of understanding and controlling environmental P fluxes. P-TRAP has been aiming to develop new methods and approaches to trap P in drained agricultural areas and in the sediments of eutrophic lakes. The P-TRAP technologies have in common that they rely on the naturally strong connection between the biogeochemical cycling of P and iron (Fe). Trapping of P involved the application of Fe-containing by-products from drinking water treatment. P-TRAP aspired the ideas of a circular economy and aimed at recovering the retained P in agricultural systems and to convert it into valuable products for agricultural applications. In order to direct and support the development of the technologies, process-orientated investigations on the behaviour of P during the transformation of Fe minerals have been conducted. The poster will highlight some results from the project and will present conclusions, which can be drawn based on the current achievements.