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Research and development

As a leading and long-term player in our industry, we are committed to research and development (R&D). NOAH continuously works on technology monitoring of interesting technologies and processes that can be integrated into the circular value chain and enhance current processes for the treatment of hazardous waste. A dedicated development department leads this effort.

All research and development within the company are linked to one of two main tracks:

  1. Advancement and improvement of current processes
  2. Various recycling options related to the fractions we receive

Advancement of Current Processes

In the “Hazardous Waste” sector, continuous work is carried out on process improvements and optimizations to make the received waste more stable and less hazardous. Operational development primarily takes place in the process department at the treatment facility on Langøya. The focus here is on optimizing the current operational process during planned reception and treatment of various types of industrial waste. Priority areas include safe plant operation, health and safety, and limiting emissions to the external environment.

The long-term development path focuses on processes that render the waste less hazardous to a greater extent than today, as well as potential applications for the rendered fractions.

For ordinary waste, the main focus is on further developing processes with regard to quality, environment, and safety at various locations.

Recycling

The work includes technology development with a focus on future utilization and recycling of resources from waste. The hazardous waste received by NOAH contains certain components that may be technically possible to recycle. Testing and laboratory activities take place both at Langøya, with consultants, and other technology collaboration partners. In recycling, the overarching work includes:

  • Recycling of salts – realized efficient handling and separation of potassium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium chloride for use in other industrial processes through ReSalt.
  • Using CO2 from industrial flue gas to stabilize hazardous waste.
  • Exploiting the value creation potential in fly ash and sulfuric acid – Askepott.
  • Development of new products that may become input factors in other industries, in close collaboration with other industries.

Recycling within ordinary waste has mainly focused on soil washing, where NOAH, in collaboration with Franzefoss, has established the company FRANO and is in the process of establishing a soil washing plant at Bånkall outside Oslo. The goal is to become a leading player in environmentally friendly mass management. Further focus is on improvement work in the washing process, through initiatives such as SIRKMASS, and the utilization of residual fractions.