‘Micro WAstewaTer Treatment System using Photocatalytic Surfaces’ (Micro WatTS), a University of Malta lead project co-financed by INTERREG V. A. Italia-Malta, shall develop a micro greywater solar water treatment system, a step in the right direction when it comes to tackling the problem of water shortage that Malta and Sicily face.
The first step of the three-year project (2018-2021) is the identification of a number of surfaces exhibiting photocatalytic potential. Test samples have been produced, characterised and their photocatalytic effectiveness tested in order to assess their decontamination capability. The best performing materials have been installed in prototypes and field tested by carrying out bacteriological and chemical tests on the treated water.
Short term distinctive aspects of the project include:
- Cross-border collaboration at a high level of research leading to the development of innovative eco-products / services,
- Transfer of technology to SMEs,
- Cross-border mobility of workers and researchers,
- Adoption by SMEs of the innovative technology developed,
- Financial and non-financial assistance to SMEs.
- Generate green jobs,
- Have an impact on the carbon and water footprint and
- Lead to a better use of natural resources.
The project has now reached a stage where further photocatalysis tests based on fouled and re-cleaned surfaces need to be carried out. For this purpose, a small unit will be built and installed at the UM for the purpose of testing greywater treated using fouled photocatalytic surfaces that have been cleaned.
The UM requires the services of a multiskilled person capable of building the above mentioned unit as per design provided by UM (for confidentiality purposes, designs drawings will only be provided to the selected sub-contractor). The major system components required will be purchased by UM.
The person engaged would be required to assemble the unit including mechanical and electrical systems, and connect and programme the data acquisition and control systems.
The person selected would also be required to:
- Consult with the Micro WatTS team and familiarize himself/herself with the design of the desired equipment,
- Carry out any related machining/manufacturing, mechanical and electrical installations,
- Programme data monitoring and control systems,
- Commission the unit and verify the functionality and reliability of the plant through a series of tests,
- Prepare an SOP for the operation of the plant and its maintenance.
The candidate will be required to have a minimum of ten (10) years’ experience in:
- Mechanical and electrical engineering installations,
- Renewable energy systems installations,
- Programming of data monitoring and control systems.
- Use of Software for Solar Simulation.
Applicants are required to submit a CV via email, highlighting the above mentioned criteria.
Additionally, applicants are required to stipulate their hourly rate (EUR/hr) for the above mentioned professional service. The hourly rate must be including of applicable VAT rates (there is a limited budget for this expense).
It is estimated that the expert would be required to complete the tasks assigned over a 3 month period or within the timeframe specified by the project coordinator.
Deadline: 17 July 2020. 
