📢CIWI’s participation in the Erasmus University Challenge💡 

Posted: 26April 2024

While we are putting significant efforts in technical developments of our devices🛠, we are also pursuing our journey of continuous validation💬. Since the end of the YES!Delft Validation Lab programme, we have started participating in the Erasmus University Challenge! In this challenge, people with ideas and prototypes, and innovative start-ups come together to work on their value proposition, business plan, and their prototypes.

Close contact with the involved network of local industries, allows us to further validate our industrial assumptions and to look for a broader application of our technology💧. Besides water boards and drinking water companies, the use of water treatment chemicals plays a vital role in a broad range of water-intensive industries, as the #dairy, #petrochemical, #paper, #cleaning and #leather industry🏭.

Do you have any personal contacts in aforementioned industries? Don’t hesitate to reach out and bring them in contact with us!📩 

🎉 Exciting times at CIWI! We're thrilled to announce that our logo now graces the wall of startups at YES!Delft! 🌟

Posted: 19 April 2024

It's a small sign, but a big step for our team. We're literally making our mark on the wall, just as we're making our mark in the water treatment industry. Here's to more visibility, innovation, and making even bigger splashes! Thank you for all the support. Let's continue the journey together! 

💡CIWInsight 9; Our customer insights and renewed value proposition🔎 

Posted: 5 April 2024

Over the past 10 weeks, we've made significant progess in understanding the value we can provide to our customers. This allows us to develop a product that directly address the problems our customers face. In our previous CIWInsights, we delved into the status-quo of water treatment chemicals, emphasizing the challenges associated with coagulants.⚠️ But what exactly are we working on, and what advantages do we offer?

🏆Our Value Proposition

CIWI’s on-site device produces water treatment agents, reducing the supply chain complexity by 85%, eliminating chemical hazards and cutting carbon emissions by 50% from day 1*.

With our devices, our aim is to empower water treatment companies to achieve self-sufficiency, providing them with the independence they desire.💧

Moreover, the benefits of our CIWI devices extend far beyond our core value proposition. Compared to conventional metal salts, CIWI's agents significantly reduce unwanted acidification (pH lowering) and the introduction of salts into our environment, safeguarding our precious ecosystems.🌍 

*Coagulation chemicals 

CIWI’s Validation Lab experience💡

Posted: 29 March 2024

Last week marked the end of CIWI’s participation to the YES!Delft Validation Lab! Together with OceanAI, shapewave industries BV, Lignitec B.V., SOLR&D, and Aleph Cognito, the CIWI team participated in a wide range of sessions, sharpening our value proposition, validating our assumptions, and learning more about legal, funding and the importance of team.🤝

While we have a clear goal at CIWI, which is literally in our name; bringing Chemical Innovations to the Water Industry💧, we had a hard time pinpointing the problems, i.e. pains, our customers experience. When we joined the Validation Lab, we had one clear objective: “Talk to as many potential customers and decision makers as possible”.💬 And we did so, having completed over 30 very insightful interviews during the past 10 weeks! But what have we learned? … that is for the CIWInsight of next week!

We want to thank the YES!Delft team, all session speakers, and the external experts for their time and effort, helping us to move forward. 💪 Not to forget our mentor, Jin Han, whose guidance really helped us to focus! 🙏 

🌍💧 Celebrating World Water Day 💧🌍 

Posted: 22 March 2024

On #WorldWaterDay, CIWI stands by the belief that access to clean water is a fundamental right for all. Achieving this is only possible when water treatment is universally accessible. We are dedicated to making water treatment chemicals more available, sustainable, and reliable. Our goal is to empower every individual, community and company with the means to treat their water, ensuring a healthier and safer future for all.

With CIWI, Water Treatment never dries up.

Join us in our mission to ensure everyone can access water and a clean environment. 💧🌍 

CIWInsight 8: Going Electric! Revolutionizing Chemical Management 

Posted: 15 March 2024

⚗️ Facing the Challenge

Traditional chemical management requires extensive safety protocols, dedicated storage facilities, and specialized personnel training. Storage also demands stringent permits and continuous monitoring to ensure safety and compliance.

💡 CIWI's Innovative Solution

Imagine transforming this challenge into an opportunity. CIWI is at the forefront of this revolution with our electrochemical production method. Our technology enables the on-demand creation of needed agents directly at the site, dramatically minimizing the risks and complexities of storage and handling.

🌟 The CIWI Advantage

Our method is more than a technological breakthrough; it's a commitment to enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability. 

🌟🌍CIWI's Sustainable Supply Chain Shift: Revolutionizing Coagulant Production for a Greener Future 

Posted: 8 March 2024

💧In the water treatment industry, CIWI is taking bold strides to transform the production of coagulants, historically reliant on hydrochloric and sulfuric acids.

🏭 The Conventional Method: Acids at the Core of Coagulant Production

Traditionally, hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) are fundamental in inorganic coagulant production. By mixing them with iron or aluminium sources, we obtain products like iron chloride, aluminium sulfate, and PAC, among others. The production of these acids leads to a significant carbon footprint, driven by the immense energy requirement and reliance on fossil fuels. The chemical industry's reliance on energy closely links its stability and costs to global events and energy market fluctuations.

🌿 CIWI's Acid-Free and Eco-Friendly Solution

CIWI is pioneering technologies in producing coagulants without using traditional acids. This approach drastically reduces the coagulants' carbon footprint and significantly streamlines the supply chain.

Want to learn more? Stay tuned for our CIWInsights in the coming months!" 

The origin and future of our carbon emissions 📉

Posted: 23 February 2024

In 2022, 3.1 billion tonnes of carbon was emitted by the 28 EU countries. 💨 96% of these emissions originated from our energy sources; burning fossil fuels, as coal, gas, and oil.⛽ All modern industries rely on these energy sources, but what are the alternatives?

To achieve a net-zero world, there is a strong need to reduce the carbon emissions of our industries. Many are currently aiming for electrification of their processes, harnessing the movement of electrons.⚡ One well-known example is the production of green hydrogen, relying on renewable energy sources as wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal energy.

CIWI wants to ride this wave of electrification, bringing electrochemical engineering to the water sector by our on-site systems.🌊 Our technologies are based on electrochemistry, where the movement of electrons is used to form desired chemicals. Some would say it’s magic, going from invisible electrons to directly usable products.🧙‍♂️

🌊 A Surprising Fact in Water Treatment: Only a Fraction Matters! 

Posted: 16 February 2024

In typical water treatment processes, a whopping 85% of the mass in chemicals like iron chloride is just water, acids, and counter ions. That's right, we're moving huge quantities of material that's not even key to treatment! Only the metal matters as pointed out in last week’s #CIWInsight.🤯💦

Now, picture this: a truck where only the orange section is what a treatment facility uses. The rest? It's just extra baggage we don’t need! 🚚🍊

At CIWI, we're all about ditching this unnecessary bulk. Doing this cuts down the complexity, risk, and yes – a whole lot of those unwanted carbon emissions! 🌱🌍

Join us in our mission for more efficient, eco-friendly water treatment. It's not just smart; it's necessary! 

Looking into detail: Let’s talk about chemistry.🔎 

Posted: 9 February 2024

In the previous #CIWInsights we have discussed the application and importance of coagulants. But what makes these chemicals so special? To answer this question, it’s time dust off your basic chemistry knowledge… 👨‍🔬 👩‍🔬

Two well-known coagulants are Ferric Chloride (FeCl3) and Aluminum Sulphate (Al-SO4), where FeCl3 is usually in liquid (solution) and Al-SO4 a solid form (powder). While these names and chemical formulas are long and complex, only the metal ions; iron (Fe) and Aluminum (Al), do all the work. 👑

Like magnets, these metal ions neutralize charged particles in the water.⚡ As you saw last week, neutralizing charges causes solid-liquid separation and adsorption of pollutants. In this way, coagulants play a crucial role in water treatment. 🥇

Interestingly, CIWI’s process does not rely on these conventional coagulants, but only focusses on the crucial metal ions. 

The Growing Demand for Coagulants: A Glimpse into the Future of Water Treatment 

Posted: 2 February 2024

In the next decade, we're expecting a remarkable shift in the water treatment industry. At CIWI, we're closely observing a key trend: the consumption of coagulants is projected to double. Why does this matter?

Coagulants play a pivotal role in water treatment. They are crucial for two main reasons:

1.    Solid-Liquid Separation: They effectively separate suspended solids from water.

2.    Adsorption of Pollutants: Coagulants bind and remove dissolved contaminants.

Without these vital chemicals, many water treatment processes would be less effective and significantly more costly.

As CIWI commits to improving the environment and making water accessible for everyone, the importance of coagulants cannot be overstated. In embracing global changes, we're not just adapting; we're preparing for a future where clean water is a shared reality.

Coagulants: The Unsung Heroes in Water Treatment and Beyond! 🌊🛡️ 

Posted: 26 January 2024

Accounting for 25% of all water treatment chemicals globally, the versatility of coagulants is unmatched. 🌏💧

🔍 The Journey Begins with Drinking Water: Primarily used in the initial stages of water treatment, but the role of coagulants is far more expansive.

🌿 Protecting Ecosystems: Coagulants are used to remove phosphates from domestic wastewater, which is crucial in preventing nutrient overloading in natural water bodies, thereby protecting us and nature alike. 🐟🌱

🏭 Beyond Drinking Water: Coagulants are pivotal in various industries – from chemical manufacturing, food processing, and textiles, to mining and electronics. All products we use depend indirectly on their availability. 🚗🍲

Stay tuned for more #CIWInsights in the upcoming weeks as we continue to explore and innovate at #YESDelft. 

CIWInsight! 📣 

Posted: 19 January 2024

This week marks a significant milestone for us at CIWI as we embark on an enlightening journey with YESDelft's validation lab. Our focus? Sharpening our business vision and mission to resonate more clearly with you.

Did you know? In the last 150 years, innovation in essential chemicals for water treatment has been minimal. Yet, these chemicals are the lifeline for countless businesses. Without these chemicals, many operations could come to a standstill.

Over the next 10 weeks, we're not just aiming to articulate our goals better. We’re on a mission to deepen our understanding of your needs and challenges. We will also be publishing a new #CIWInsight every week!

🤝 Are you or someone you know facing hurdles with water treatment? From business owners to operators, we're here to listen and help.

💌 Connect with us at info@ciwi.earth. Share your story, and let's explore how we can ensure the uninterrupted flow of your business.

🌟 Happy Holidays from all of us at CIWI!

Posted: 24 December 2023

As we celebrate this festive season, our thoughts turn to the brighter future we hope to create. In 2024, we aspire for a world where clean water and a healthy environment are accessible to everyone. Our commitment is steadfast, and we look forward to contributing to a more sustainable and thriving planet.

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with hope and progress." 💧 

💧 CIWI's New Chapter at YES!Delft's Validation Lab 📈

Posted: 21 December 2023

We're thrilled to share that CIWI has been selected for the prestigious Validation Lab at YES!Delft, Europe's leading tech incubator. This marks a pivotal moment in our mission to revolutionize water treatment with commercialization of sustainable solutions.

🔍 Deep Dive into Customer Needs: 

In the coming weeks, we'll be engaging directly with potential customers through interviews. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced in industrial water treatment facilities, drinking water, and wastewater management. Our focus is on coagulants, as currently used iron(ferric)-chloride and aluminum-sulphate – addressing supply chain resilience and reducing environmental impact.

💡 Your Insight is Invaluable: 

We're eager to connect with professionals in the water treatment sector. If you're involved in industrial water treatment, drinking water, or wastewater management and you are applying water treatment processes that rely on coagulants, we would love to hear from you.

🤝 Join Us in Shaping the Future:Your experiences and challenges will help shape our solutions. Connect with us to be part of a sustainable future in water treatment! Contact us at info@ciwi.earth

#CIWI #SustainableSolutions #WaterTreatment #YESDelft #CustomerInsight 

🌟 Launching CIWI: by Jasper Schakel & Erik Kraaijeveld 🌟

Posted: 20 December 2023

We're thrilled to introduce CIWI, Chemical Innovations in Water Industries, a venture committed to transforming the water industry through sustainable chemical solutions. 💧♻

Why CIWI?

While many focus on technologies for water treatment, the vital role of chemicals in often overlooked. Without chemicals, as coagulants and pH correctors, our technologies would falter. We're here to change that.

Our Mission:

CIWI is not just about sustainable water treatment; it's about redefining the industry. We're committed to reducing the carbon footprint, avoiding chemical handling hazards, ensuring a resilient supply chain, and maintaining cost-effectiveness. This is our significant step towards the future of water treatment.

With IMD's support, we've developed a business model that scales these principles for substantial impact. Special thanks to Jim Pulcrano and Thierry Maupilé for their role in the IMD Venture Award, which helped kickstart our journey. Our business model relies on the technical innovations we are realising in a collaboration with the TU Delft | Water for Impact, under guidance of Prof. Doris van Halem.

As we collaborate with Delft University of Technology, YES!Delft, and IMD, we invite you to join us in our mission to guarantee access to clean water. 🌍💚

Join CIWI's journey towards innovative and sustainable water solutions.

#CIWI #SustainableWaterTreatment #InnovationInWater 

CIWI wins IMD MBA Venture Award 2023 

Posted: 1 November 2023

We're thrilled to announce that CIWI, a to be founded start-up by Jasper Schakel and Erik Kraaijeveld has won the IMD MBA Venture Award 2023. 

CIWI was selected by a highly experienced and critical jury, consisting of IMD alumnus and serial entrepreneur Thierry Maupilé (MBA 1988), whose generosity made the award possible. The other members of the jury were; Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Management Jim Pulcrano, venture capital investor Olivier Laplace (MBA 2014), and Kevin Linker, Managing Partner, Raine Next-Gen Communications at The Raine Group.  

The motivation for Maupilé to organise the competition was as followed: “After 20+ years spent incubating and managing start-ups, it is important as an MBA alumnus to be able to share and support entrepreneurship in the IMD MBA program,” he said. “For the second year of the MBA Venture Award, we reviewed great projects, full of innovation and enthusiasm, and I am looking forward to working with the winner. The impact of the IMD MBA Venture Award is way beyond what we expected. It shows how IMD alumni can contribute to ensure IMD sustains its leadership in executive education.” 

The award includes a financial grant of 100,000 CHF, as well as mentorship from Maupilé and Pulcrano. Candidates interested in the award may apply individually or as part of a team. At least one of the venture’s founders must be an IMD MBA candidate. However, collaboration with individuals from other institutions and backgrounds is encouraged.

source at IMD website: https://www.imd.org/news/innovation/eco-friendly-chemicals-company-wins-2023-mba-venture-award/