Francesco Volpe
Location: Palermo, Italy
Position: PhD Student at University of Palermo
Francesco Volpe is a dedicated PhD student in the chemical, environmental, biomedical, hydraulic and materials engineering program at the University of Palermo (UNIPA). He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, obtained in October 2019, and a master’s degree in process chemical engineering, completed in March 2022, both from UNIPA. Francesco is currently enhancing his research experience through an exchange period at the University of Ghent in Belgium.
His PhD research focuses on fouling in Ion Exchange Membranes, aiming to develop predictive models to simulate fouling deposition and its effects using tools such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Machine Learning. As part of the SEArcularMINE project, Francesco is involved in the Reverse Electrodialysis (RED) Unit, which recovers electric energy from streams with different salinities, thus valorizing waste products like brines and bitterns. Notably, the experimental work with a second-generation RED prototype recently achieved a net power density of 6 W/m².
Francesco values the opportunity to network with European partners and institutions on, as well as the collaborative environment fostered by SEArcularMINE. He highlights the project’s role in promoting circular economy principles, demonstrating sustainable productive systems, and generating significant scientific interest and innovative solutions. Francesco finds this challenging experience invaluable for his professional and personal growth and is committed to contributing to sustainable engineering practices.
