AquaCombine

The AQUA-COMBINE project aims to design and demonstrate a biorefinery system for cultivation and valorization of halophyte plants. The cultivation of halophyte plants such as Salicornia europaea is combined with aquaculture in an aquaponic system for water purification and recirculation of nutrients. The valorization of the halophytes is realized through the use of the green tips as food, while the residual plant material is used for extraction of  bio-active compounds like hydroxycinnamic acids (strong anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant), high quality protein, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, carotenoids, and chlorophyll. The lignocellulosic fiber fraction left after extraction is separated into high value xylooligosaccharides (prebiotics), charcoal from lignin and finally used to produce biogas, which is the project task for FUAS.