131855OPTIMAL -nOvel PhoTocatalytIc treatMent processClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKThe OPTIMAL project builds on the previous work by Keronite & atg UV and will undertake a technical feasibility study into the development and application of a novel photocatalyst technology for safe, reliable & cost-effective water treatment for the emerging UK shale gas market. We are a business-led consortium, focussing upon the water treatment of flowback liquid to substantially reduce the quantities of clean water needed during the fracking operation. The OPTIMAL system will deliver a chemical free process for removing organic pollutants and offers a route to totally removing the application of harmful biocides. The project concentrates on the following developments: 1. Development & optimisation of photocatalyst using (a) conversion of Ti into TiO2 highly photoactive anatase form via a Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) process & (b) bandgap engineering of TiO2 to tailor activity under UV light (200-500nm) 2.Optimisation of photocatalytic system through optimisation of geometry, orientation & proximity to UV lamp; 3. Demonstration of feasibility of system for breakdown of dissolved organic pollutants using a representative flow back liquid sample.