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Our Partners and References

Insulation Fault Detector in High Voltage Distribution Networks

Partner: ČEZ Distribuce a.s.

The current development of electromobility and decentralised energy sources places high demands on the reliability and robustness of the high-voltage distribution network. One of the options to increase the operational reliability of these lines is to replace the currently used AlFe ropes with insulated overhead wires. This conductor is made of aluminum alloy AlMgSi wires and is coated with XLPE or HDPE based insulation material. The use of insulated suspension wires offers a number of advantages over AlFe ropes. Insulated conductors are not susceptible to contact with surrounding vegetation, which is one of the most common sources of distribution line failures. Especially in densely forested areas, situations arise where a tree falling on the line can cause an interphase short circuit or a ground fault or ground connection. The use of insulated overhead conductors also reduces 64 the environmental impact in the vicinity of the line route, as the necessary vegetation clearances are reduced.

Partner’s Note

„The high voltage distribution lines owned by ČEZ Distribuce have a total length of over 50,000 km. A part of this network consists of overhead lines with insulated conductors. These lines represent an interesting alternative. Compared to bare conductors, they have the advantage of a smaller protection zone, which is used in forest clearings due to the insulation of the conductors, and their investment costs are lower compared to underground cables. However, the operation of overhead HV lines with insulated conductors is very specific in terms of network management. Conventional digital protections are not able to detect some non-standard operating conditions that can cause damage to the conductor insulation - for example, branches or trees falling into the line. Therefore, in cooperation with CEET-CENET, a device has been developed that can detect impending damage to the overhead conductor insulation. With the insulation fault detector, our dispatchers have a tool in their hands that can warn them of the potential risk of a fault on the line. In the event of an imminent risk of a fault, a timely response by the dispatcher can prevent damage to the conductors insulation and thus interruption of power supply to customers.“

Ing. Milan Jelínek, ČEZ Distribuce a.s.

Support for the Development of New Surface Blasting Equipment

Partner: WISTA s.r.o

The cooperation focuses on the handling of particulate and bulk materials, which are widely used in industry and whose important properties include abrasiveness. Abrasive materials can cause equipment wear, but can also be deliberately utilised in processes such as abrasive blasting. WISTA therefore developed a mobile containerised unit for surface blasting, with particular emphasis on efficient abrasive circulation, material degradation, and its behaviour within the conveying, sorting and storage sections of the system in order to prevent malfunctions or blockages. The CEET-CENET research team provided technical support through advanced measurements and Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations, which helped optimise the equipment design, reduce risks during prototype development, and translate the acquired data into specific design recommendations and methodologies for reliable operation.

Partner’s Note

„The cooperation with the Bulk Materials research group has helped us a lot in the development of the new production equipment. The representation of the flow of abrasive bulk material in the proposed 3D model of the plant before the prototype was produced allowed us to identify bottlenecks in the process in advance, to modify them and to increase the efficiency of the design. Consulting with this research group and using their state-of--the-art measurement and diagnostic equipment, as well as their experience in applying computer simulation using the DEM method, helped us to reduce the occurrence of a number of potential problems and failures. This, of course, also reduced the financial costs of prototype development and field testing.“

Ing. Jiří Neuwirth, MBA, WISTA s.r.o.

Development of a Mobile Line for Asphalt Recyclate Processing

Partner: MOBIKO plus, a.s.

In cooperation between MOBIKO plus and the CEET-CENET research centre, a new generation of processing line for recycling construction waste, particularly asphalt-based materials, has been developed. The system enables efficient processing of diverse input materials, including their sorting, treatment and reuse. The solution includes optimisation of technological processes as well as the development of new mixture formulations with a higher proportion of recycled material, validated through laboratory testing. The line operates in an automated mode, increases the utilisation of materials that have previously been difficult to recycle and, thanks to its mobile configuration, can be easily transported directly to the processing site, providing a significant advantage over conventional stationary systems.

Partner’s Note

„The prototype is a third-generation mobile processing line with a capacity of up to 20 tonnes/ hour.  Based on the evaluation of the prototype‘s trial operation, series production can be started. Experimental measurements, laboratory tests and stress tests then show that the plant can be successfully operated with an increased proportion of recycled input even for new surfaces while maintaining the required quality parameters. The results have demonstrated the possibility to increase the recycled content of new asphalt mixes and surfaces to close to 100%. Existing technologies use only 15-60 % of this material.  The result of the solution is a protected recycled asphalt mix with R-material, registered with the relevant industrial property office. It is now a competitive advantage for our company and the basis for further planned developments. And also, a source of prestige, valuable data and experience for the CEET research group of the Thermochemical and hydrogen conversion.

The proposed solution mitigates the impacts of mining, declining raw material stocks and the overall ecological burden.  At the same time, it also anticipates the planned changes in legislation at the national and EU level. It will therefore also have an international impact on the wider construction market.“

Ing. Petr Zima, Mobiko plus, a.s.

Ecological Disposal and Energy Recovery ff Sewage Sludge

Partner: EKOMVO, s.r.o.

The project, developed in cooperation between Ekomvo s.r.o. and CEET-CENET, focuses on modern and environmentally responsible methods of sludge management, reflecting the growing pressure to reduce conventional disposal methods and promote solutions aligned with EU waste policy. Particular emphasis is placed on technologies that transform sludge into usable products, ideally with added energy value, either through recycling approaches, such as its use as fertiliser, or through thermal treatment processes including incineration, gasification and energy recovery. Incineration is considered one of the most effective methods for the environmentally sound treatment of sludge, particularly contaminated or hazardous sludge, as it enables its safe disposal while also allowing the recovery and utilisation of the heat generated.

Partner’s Note

„The project team of our company EKOMVO in close cooperation with the research group of Thermochemical and hydrogen conversion CEET--CENET developed a test unit for the disposal of sewage sludge using incineration technology with the subsequent possibility of recovering some substances. This new treatment technology reduces the volume of sludge by up to 90%, while the remaining material is inert and can be safely disposed of in a landfill or used for the recovery of certain substances from the ash. In this case, in particular phosphorus, which can be used as a valuable fertiliser in agriculture. This output is very welcome in view of the world‘s dwindling natural reserves of phosphorus, which is an essential component of most fertilisers.“

Ing. Otakar Fajkoš, EKOMVO s.r.o.

Sun Instead of Electric Furnaces, Cheap Nanomaterial Instead of Gold

Partner: Leibniz Institute  for Catalysis, Germany

CEET-CNT, in collaboration with international colleagues and researchers from the CATRIN institute at Palacký University Olomouc, has developed a breakthrough nanomaterial based on the widely available mineral chalcopyrite. By harnessing solar energy, the material can significantly accelerate and reduce the cost of aniline production, a key feedstock used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, plastics and dyes. The technology replaces expensive metals such as gold and platinum with a substantially more efficient and cost-effective solution, reducing both energy consumption and dependence on scarce raw materials. The discovery, published in the prestigious journal Nature Nanotechnology and protected by an international patent, is already attracting considerable interest from European investors due to its strong commercial potential and alignment with the principles of green chemistry.

 

Partner’s Note

„Catalysis, specifically heterogeneous catalysis, is a highly interdisciplinary field of research that enables the production of all kinds of everyday products in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. For our research group at the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis in Rostock, Germany, collaboration with Professor Radek Zbořil‘s team in this area is very important, as the expertise of both parties is complementary. Prof. Zbořil and his colleagues have fantastic know-how in the preparation and characterization of new nanostructured materials, which we are applying to industrially important chemical transformations, including the development of processes that are necessary for the valorisation of waste, carbon dioxide, etc.“

Prof. Matthias Beller, Leibnizův institut katalýzy v Rostocku

Cooperation with European Leaders in The Field of Green Energy

Partner: University of Trieste

In the SAN4FUEL project (Single Atom-Based Nanohybrid Photocatalysts for Green Fuels), funded under the Twinning call, CEET-CENET collaborates with the CATRIN institute at Palacký University Olomouc, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany, and the University of Trieste. The project applies an innovative atomic engineering approach to address global climate challenges. Its objective is to develop a new generation of materials whose properties can be precisely controlled at the level of individual atoms, enabling more efficient production of green hydrogen through solar-driven water splitting and the conversion of waste carbon dioxide into useful chemicals. By combining experimental research with computational modelling using the IT4Innovations supercomputing infrastructure at VSB-TUO, this prestigious European project aims to substantially improve the efficiency of sustainable energy technologies and reduce global dependence on fossil fuels.

Partner’s Note

„Carbon dioxide can be converted electrochemically into useful chemicals or energy sources such as formic acid, carbon monoxide, ethylene, ethanol or methane using suitable nanomaterials. We will focus on graphene-based nanomaterials enriched with suitable metals, which have been prepared in the past by colleagues in Ostrava and Olomouc. Our joint effort will be to increase the conversion efficiency and to develop new monoatomic materials so that carbon dioxide valorisation technologies can find application in real practice. We can build on our long-term cooperation, which has proven itself in the past and led to a number of significant results.“

Prof. Paolo Fornasiero, Univerzita v Terstu

Hydrogen - The Future of Energy and Transport

Partner: Vitesco Technologies Czech Republic s.r.o.

The project, carried out in cooperation between CEET-CNT and Vitesco Technologies, focuses on long-term reliability testing of pressure sensors designed for hydrogen technologies in the energy and transport sectors. As part of the development process, a specialised measurement setup was designed and built to verify sensor performance across a wide range of temperatures and pressures corresponding to real operating conditions. The developed sensors can be used not only to enhance the safety of hydrogen-based systems, but also in applications involving other gases, including hydrocarbons.

Partner’s Note

„By working with CEET-CNT laboratories on specific development tasks, we are increasing the level of knowledge and new experience in our company. I firmly believe that the results and benefits of our cooperation will very soon start to be seen in winning contracts in the UK market and wherever passive public transport safety plays an important role. The cooperation within the region has been highly effective and for me personally it has been, and still is, an interesting experience and also a pleasure that we have achieved many things together, even better than we originally expected.“

Roman Kučera, Vitesco Technologies Czech Republic s.r.o

Development of Ceramic Layers

Partner: VÚHŽ a.s.

VÚHŽ a.s. and CEET-CNT jointly carried out a project focused on modifying the surfaces of titanium and aluminium alloys using micro-arc oxidation (MAO/PEO) technology. The aim was to significantly improve the tribological and corrosion properties of the materials, which is essential for the manufacture of trauma implants as well as highly stressed components used in the automotive and aerospace industries. For implant applications, excellent biocompatibility was also confirmed, supporting the healing process and facilitating the subsequent removal of temporary fixation devices. In the case of Al-Si alloys, the project also delivered an effective method for producing coatings with exceptionally high wear resistance.

Partner’s Note

„A joint solution in collaboration between CEET--CNT academia and the industrial enterprise has contributed to the use of micro-arc oxidation technology to prepare wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant oxide layers. The design, and the solution itself, was based on a long-standing collaboration in the field of surface modification of trauma and orthopaedic implants on titanium alloys. A ceramic coating on Al-Si alloys was developed for the automotive and mechanical engineering industry, meeting the mechanical and corrosion performance requirements while achieving low operating costs and environmentally friendly operation of the technology.“

Ing. Vít Michenka, VÚHŽ a.s.

Design of a new technology for crude caprolactam refining

Partner: SPOLANA s.r.o.

SPOLANA, s.r.o. is the sole manufacturer of caprolactam in the Czech Republic, which serves as a key monomer for the production of polyamide 6 with wide applications in the textile, construction, and composite industries, while its global consumption is growing. In cooperation with TECHEM CZ, s.r.o. and the CEET-IET research center, an innovative caprolactam refining process was developed, replacing the carcinogenic trichloroethylene regulated by REACH legislation and allowing for the same or higher product quality. This included the establishment of laboratory facilities and planned verification on a pilot unit; this development supports the company's strategy of modernization, safety, and environmental protection, while bringing economic savings and improving the company's public perception.

Partner’s Note

"We would like to highlight our long-term and successful cooperation with CEET-IET at VŠB-TUO. During our aforementioned joint projects, we had the opportunity to experience their professional approach, high level of technology, and deep knowledge of the field. CEET-IET has proven to be a leading scientific workplace focusing on innovative and sustainable technologies for environmental protection. Their team of experts is not only well-trained but also constantly monitors and applies the latest research and trends in the field, which were continuously implemented during our cooperation on joint projects, both within the ELTRIS project and the KONTIRAK project. During our collaboration, we focused on applied research in the field of caprolactam refining. Thanks to their expertise and technological know-how, we were able to successfully fulfill the substantive scope of the projects and achieve excellent results. Their approach to solving this issue was innovative and effective, allowing us to make significant progress in caprolactam refining. Overall, we can say that the cooperation with CEET-IET has been very beneficial and inspiring for us."

Ing. Martin Čech, SPOLANA a.s.

Increasing the efficiency of nitrogen oxide reduction technology

Partner: SMS CZ spol. s r.o.

The project focuses on the energy utilization of non-recyclable and hazardous waste that cannot be recycled or landfilled, where the thermal decomposition process removes its hazardous properties, reduces its volume, and simultaneously produces energy in the form of heat or electricity. In collaboration with SMS CZ, CEET-IET developed modern technologies for reducing emissions and replacing fossil fuels with waste-based fuels. This includes a mobile containerized unit that enables the energy processing of waste directly in locations without infrastructure or after natural disasters, thus bringing ecological and energetic benefits with practical application in various industrial and crisis conditions.

Partner’s Note

"We have been cooperating with CEET laboratories since 2013. We were very pleased that the newly emerging laboratories of the institute chose our company as the supplier of technology for energy recovery from waste. From the very beginning of our mutual contact, I sensed that the cooperation would be long-term.

Over the course of ten years, we have jointly and successfully resolved five research projects, and we have plans for new ones. The results of our mutual cooperation have helped us in our business activities. We have gained new knowledge that we capitalize on in our production, making our newly offered products more competitive and, above all, more environmentally friendly. At the same time, we must proudly mention that our joint results have gained recognition among the professional public."

Ing. Petr Jirsa, Ph.D., SMS CZ spol. s r.o.

New technology for waste gas treatment using advanced oxidation processes

Partner: DEKONTA a.s.

Commonly used technologies for the removal of undesirable substances from waste gases include adsorption, catalytic combustion, or biofiltration; however, these often exhibit a number of disadvantages. Therefore, advanced oxidation processes, especially photochemical oxidation, are emerging as a promising alternative, being effective even at low concentrations of toxic or odorous substances while also being advantageous in terms of operation and costs. The collaboration between CEET-IET and DEKONTA led to the development and testing of a pilot-scale photochemical unit in various industrial operations, thereby bringing significant progress in the field of waste gas treatment and environmental protection, while also creating a foundation for other similar applications.

Partner’s Note

"I would like to commend the excellent cooperation with CEET-IET in the field of waste gas treatment using advanced oxidation processes. This collaboration represents a prime example of a synergistic partnership between a scientific institute and an industrial entity aimed at protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development. I want to express my appreciation to both parties for their effort, expertise, and commitment. Our collaboration is practical proof that science and industry can work together to solve key environmental challenges. I believe that the cooperation will continue and contribute to further innovations and the improvement of the environment, not only in our country but also globally."

Mgr. Radim Žebrák, Ph.D., Dekonta a.s.

Use of Hydrogen for Advanced Energy Transformation

Partner: Veolia Energie ČR, a.s

Veolia Energie ČR, in cooperation with CEET-VEC, is implementing a pilot project focused on the production of green hydrogen for bus, rail and freight transport. Using innovative Power-to-Gas technology, surplus electricity from renewable sources, particularly solar energy and biomass, will be converted into hydrogen in existing heating plant complexes using multi-megawatt electrolysers. The hydrogen will then be compressed, stored and distributed for further use. The system will also incorporate a large-scale battery energy storage facility, enabling more efficient energy management, cost savings and a significant acceleration of the region’s energy transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

Partner’s Note

„The cooperation with the research team at CEET--VEC in the area of preparation for the production of „green“ hydrogen for energy purposes follows the focus and development strategy of our company Veolia Energie ČR, a.s.  From this cooperation we expect a wider use of renewable energy sources and a positive benefit for our company. The introduction of advanced hydrogen technologies and their interconnection with thermal power plants is part of our vision for the transition to clean energy sources and the transformation of the region. There are a number of benefits to linking hydrogen production with existing district heating technologies, or supplementing it with additional renewable sources. For one thing, green hydrogen can be produced reliably all year round, but it can also provide the support services needed to balance fluctuations in the power grid.“

Ing. et Ing. Arnošt Gross, Veolia Energie ČR, a.s

Cooperation on Explosion Risk Assessment

Partner: IHAS s.r.o.

The accredited CEET-VEC facility and IHAS s.r.o. combine their long-standing experience and expert teams in the fields of industrial safety and fire and explosion risk assessment. Their cooperation effectively links specialised laboratory measurements carried out at CEET-VEC with practical analyses performed directly at industrial sites, with the primary objective of obtaining high-quality input data for quantitative risk analysis of chemical processes. The outputs of the joint project, including simulation models, risk catalogues and recommendations for safe operational management, help minimise hazards throughout the entire technology lifecycle – from facility construction and storage to actual operation. The project also responds to current demand for the automation of explosion testing, which can accelerate previously time-consuming manual analyses and make a significant contribution to improving occupational safety in line with European Commission priorities.

Partner’s Note

„The use of specialised instruments for the study of explosion phenomena and flammability of materials is beneficial for the industrial sector as well as for forensic experts and inspection authorities. Cooperation with the laboratory at CEET-VEC which is the only facility in the Czech Republic allows to obtain key explosion parameters. Moreover, the explosion process can be applied to specific industry requirements that companies are concerned about and the result parameters can be further used to plan safety measures tailored to a specific customer.“

Ing. Tadeáš Podstawka, Ph.D., IHAS s.r.o.

Reducing Mercury Emissions

Partner: ČEZ, a.s.

The CEET-VEC research centre, in cooperation with its main industrial partner, ČEZ Group, became the first in the Czech Republic to accredit a methodology for continuous mercury emission measurement, responding to stricter European legislation. Based on long-term testing carried out together with the Czech Technical University in Prague under real operating conditions at lignite-fired facilities, the laboratory successfully verified and recommended effective sorbents for significantly reducing heavy metal emissions. This successful cooperation is now expanding, within ČEZ’s Clean Energy of Tomorrow strategy, from emission reduction to the decarbonisation process itself. CEET-VEC supports preparations for the transition to low-emission and renewable energy sources, including combined-cycle gas turbines, biomass, photovoltaics and electrolytic hydrogen production.

Partner’s Note

„The cooperation with CEET-VEC has contributed significantly to address the issue of reducing the newly monitored harmful components in emissions from the thermal use of fossil fuels, in particular mercury emissions. Thanks to the long-term measurements carried out, the importance of introducing efficient DeHg technologies, tested on real ČEZ plants, was confirmed. The measures taken will contribute to achieve a higher degree of greening of our heat generation technologies by operating nowadays still extremely important energy units. An essential part of solving the emission reduction issue in cooperation with CEET-VEC are research projects focused on fossil and alternative fuel combustion processes. As an example of our successful cooperation, I would mention two joint projects: experimental tests of solid sorbents designed to reduce the concentration of Hg, HCl and HF in flue gases (2018-2020), TA CR THETA and Implementation of measures to achieve BAT in the energy sector (2019-2022), National centre for energy.“

Ing. Luděk Dušek, ČEZ a.s.