Project: Increasing the efficiency of biotechnological processes for material and energy utilization of waste from the food industry

The project is co-financed by the European Union from the European Fund for Regional Development, which is implemented as part of the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014-2020.

A short description of the project

The Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development awarded the company CROTEH d.o.o. Innovation voucher number KK.03.2.2.03.0352 for the implementation of the project “Increasing the efficiency of biotechnological processes of material and energy utilization for waste from the food industry”, as part of the Call for submission of project proposals “Innovation vouchers for SMEs” (reference code: KK.03.2 .2.03).

The project aims to improve the utilization of food industry waste through anaerobic digestion, utilizing biotechnological methods, and collaborating with a scientific research organization for laboratory analyses using chromatographic and spectrometric methods.

The total value of the project is HRK 103,420.00, and the amount of total acceptable project costs is HRK 103,420.00. Grants awarded amount to HRK 72,394.00.

Project implementation period

The project was implemented from October 26, 2021, to January 24, 2022.

The general goal of the project

The general goal of the project is to support the development of new products, services or processes by strengthening research, development and innovation capacities and encouraging cooperation with scientific and research organisations.

Purpose of the project (specific objectives)

The goal of the project is to enable further development of the process of material and energy utilization of waste from the food industry through cooperation with a scientific research organization and the implementation of laboratory analyses using chromatographic and spectrometric methods.

Excepted result of the project

  • Increase and intensification of CROTEH company’s research and development activities.
  • The total value of the project is: HRK 103,420.00 (EUR 13,720.38)
  • Total acceptable costs amount to: HRK 103,420.00 (EUR 13,720.38)
  • Amount of co-financing from the European Union: HRK 75.394,00 (EUR 10.002,26)

For more information about the project, contact Goran Lukić at: info@croteh.eu

For more information about the European Structural and Investment Funds, visit www.strukturnifondovi.hr

For more information about the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion, visit http://www.strukturnifondovi.hr/op-konkurentnost-i-kohezija-2014-2020-779

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1. REAL SAMPLE COLLECTION

We collect representative field samples directly at client facilities and analyze them in our accredited laboratory in accordance with recognized standards. Our laboratory testing includes physical, chemical, and biological parameters required to define design input values, including load variability and seasonal or operational fluctuations. These data form the foundation for reliable scaling solutions and technology development.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

Based on the assessment of existing conditions and laboratory results, we develop technical solutions tailored to each client’s requirements. When designing solutions, we consider plant capacity, influent characteristics, discharge requirements (public sewer systems or natural receiving waters), and circular economy principles. To support detailed process development, our laboratory is equipped with reactors, measuring instruments, and pilot-scale systems that allow us to simulate real operating conditions. Through pilot testing, we evaluate process efficiency, optimize operating parameters, and validate treatment concepts before full-scale implementation. This approach significantly reduces investment and operational risk while ensuring long-term sustainability of the selected solution. We also place strong emphasis on optimizing energy, chemical, and resource consumption while minimizing the plant’s environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle.

3. ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING

Our multidisciplinary engineering team prepares complete project documentation, from conceptual designs and feasibility studies to detailed engineering documentation and permit applications. All documentation is developed in accordance with current legislation, technical regulations, and applicable standards while maintaining close coordination with clients and regulatory authorities.

4. PLANT ENGINEERING AND INSTALLATION – Complete turnkey plant implementation proposal, including detailed design documentation and commissioning services

We deliver turnkey treatment plants tailored to each client’s needs. Our services include detailed engineering design, equipment procurement and delivery, site organization, installation of process and electrical equipment, and integration of automation and control systems. The final stage includes functional testing and preparation for plant commissioning.

5. CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION

We provide professional technical supervision during construction to ensure full compliance with project documentation, technical standards, and contractual requirements. We monitor construction quality, installed equipment, and adherence to project timelines.

6. PLANT COMMISSIONING AND STAFF TRAINING

After construction and functional testing are complete, we perform staged commissioning with continuous monitoring of process parameters and adjustment of operating conditions. We also prepare operational manuals and provide professional staff training to ensure safe, efficient, and long-term stable plant operation.

7. POST-CONSTRUCTION TESTING

After project completion, we perform functional and other tests to verify that the treatment plant achieves the required operational parameters and effluent quality.

8. PLANT SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

We provide preventive and corrective maintenance, scheduled service inspections, and 24/7/365 technical support. Our systematic maintenance approach extends equipment lifespan, minimizes downtime risk, and ensures high operational efficiency.

9. PLANT MONITORING AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL

We implement SCADA and PLC automation and control systems that enable continuous plant monitoring, analysis of key process parameters, and rapid response to operational deviations or fluctuations in wastewater flow and loading. We place particular emphasis on reducing energy, chemical, and labor consumption.

10. PLANT OPTIMIZATION AND RECONSTRUCTION

We perform technical assessments of existing systems to identify capacity limitations, energy losses, and operational inefficiencies. Based on our findings, we recommend retrofits, upgrades, and modernization of technological process lines to improve efficiency, ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements, and extend plant service life.

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