The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an award of $100,000 to FHNC Ltd. Company in Fort Worth, Texas, to develop and commercialize a technology that protects the environment and brings growth to the economy.
The company plans to build a device that treats sewage to remove fats, oils and grease from waste streams, according to EPA.
In order to reduce sewer maintenance costs and overflows while increasing sewer capacities, FHNC Ltd. Co. developed a proprietary, point of source sewage treatment device capable of removing over 95% of FOGs and 100% of large solids from restaurants’ waste steam, according to EPA. The device relies on a tri-stage hydrocylone which separates the liquids with centrifugal force.
The technology increases public sewer capacity and has the potential to significantly decrease sewer overflows.
The announcement is part of a national announcement for over $2.5 million in awards to 25 U.S. small businesses to develop innovative technologies that help support EPA’s mission.
“We are providing assistance to small businesses to help meet environmental challenges with emerging technologies,” said Acting EPA Administrator David Gray in the EPA press release. “This project will help control chemicals in our waterways and protect public health and the environment.”
The small businesses are receiving Phase I awards of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of their proposed technology, according to EPA. Companies that successfully complete Phase I can then submit a proposal for a Phase II award of up to $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.
More information about EPA’s SBIR Phase I winners can be found here.
