Calogero Cassaro

Location: Palermo, Italy

Position: PhD Student at University of Palermo

Calogero Cassaro is a dedicated researcher currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Palermo. He holds a bachelor's and master's degree in process chemical engineering from the same institution.

Calogero's research focuses on innovative engineering solutions, particularly in the design and development of ElectroDialysis with Bipolar Membrane (EDBM) units. His expertise extends to the programming and implementation of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) to control these units, with a special emphasis on utilizing variable energy sources from renewable sources such as solar and wind.

As part of the SEArcularMINE project, Calogero played a crucial role in commissioning the Mechanical Vapor Compression (MVC) unit. He contributed significantly to implementing control systems for the pilot plant, enabling operation in feed and bleed mode. A notable achievement was overseeing a successful 48-hour long-run experiment, which demonstrated the scalability of the treatment chain for potential industrial applications.

His thesis title "Electro-dialysis with bipolar membranes for a circular and sustainable valorisation of waste brines," was devoted to prototyping the EDBM technology and to the development and testing of innovative strategies to valorise waste brines. The research aims have mainly focused on developed advanced control strategies for the EDBM process, enabling it to store fluctuating energy coming from renewable sources or smart grids in the form of chemical reagents (e.g., acids and bases). By adjusting process variables based on energy availability and utilising waste saline streams, this approach allowed for the promotion of circular processes as well as sustainable energy utilisation. Calogero gave his thesis defense in December of 2024.

Calogero's aspirations for the future lie in the field of mineral recovery, where he aims to apply his skills and knowledge to further advancements in sustainable resource management and recovery technologies. His work in SEArcularMINE has provided him with invaluable practical experience and a solid foundation for his career goals in the mineral recovery sector.