RESEARCH PORTFOLIO
ASSIGNMENTS SEPTEMBER 2013 – JANUARY 2014
DA – APPLIED RESEARCH CENTRE
JUNE 2013
INHOUDSOPGAVE
RESEARCH GROUP AQUACULTURE IN DELTA AREAS
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Off bottom near shore shellfish culture: local production circumstances
Off bottom near shore shellfish culture: production model
Production in-land shellfish ponds
Algal quality in relation to shellfish production
Influencing algal quality by means of cultivation parameters
Feeding trials oysters
Algae for Industrial purposes
Cultivation of European lobster
Optimizing on bottom mussel culture
Flexible spatial use in Delta areas
Seaweed cultivation
RESEARCH GROUP BUILDING WITH NATURE
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Effect of size, shape and orientation of oyster reefs on habitat diversification
The effect of oyster reefs on sediment dynamics in the Eastern Scheldt
Relation between the shape, size and orientation of oyster reefs and the condition of the oysters
Measuring the impact of oysters on current and wave reduction in experiment in Water lab
Building for nature on dikes in the Eastern Scheldt
Multiple space usage of dikes around the Eastern Scheldt
Rich Revetments in the Eastern/Western Scheldt
Structuring design guidelines and calculation rules of flood protection solutions
Structuring the process of safety assessments of flood protection solutions
Analysis of target groups within Rijkswaterstaat
Governance and the implementation of Building with Nature solutions
The use of GIS for bio-geographic information on the Eastern Scheldt
RESEARCH GROUP WATER TECHNOLOGY
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Growth inhibition of micro-organisms using low frequency US travelling waves
Operational characteristics of ultrafiltration processes
Pilot plant Harnaschpolder ( Delft, The Hague), Evides & Veolia & Rossmark
Determining the optimum process conditions for NF and EDR for mild desalination
Optimisation of pre-treatment for mild desalination
Wetsus
Shell Ned Chemie BV
RESEARCH GROUP SAFETY & SPATIAL PLANNING
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Research assignment Resilient Deltas
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September 2013 – January 2014
RESEARCH GROUP AQUACULTURE IN DELTA
AREAS
Research group Aquaculture in Delta Areas of the Delta Academy has its focus on sustainable saline
aquaculture in and outside the region Zeeland. Aquaculture is the controlled production of saline crops,
algae, seaweed, ragworms, shellfish and fish. Cultivation of these organisms can take place in several
(intensive and extensive) ways. The research group Aquaculture has built up an extensive network of
Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), consultancies and knowledge institutes involved in aquaculture in
and outside the Netherlands. The main research topics are; Integrated Multi Trophic Aquaculture
(IMTA), new species to the Dutch situation (such as lobster and abalone), improvement of cultivation
environments, groundwater suitability, quality aspects in shellfish cultivation and algae cultivation.
The research group Aquaculture uses a full-fledged research facility SEA Lab, in which many applied
research (experiments) are carried out.
Minor/ Internship/ final thesis topics
OFF BOTTOM NEAR SHORE SHELLFISH CULTURE: LOCAL PRODUCTION CIRCUMSTANCES
Recently a so-called RAAK PRO project ‘Saline production’ has been granted. This project involves a 4
year study (September 2013 – September 2017) in optimizing near shore shellfish culture in Lake Veere
and Eastern Scheldt in the South West Delta Region. Focus in the project is on off bottom (in cages) of
oyster farming, bottom culture of manilla clams and rope culture of mussels in close cooperation with
local producers, companies and research institutes (a.o. Imares). Main goal is to increase on site (farm
scale) shell fish production, based on local (farm scale) circumstances like food availability and develop a
decision support tool for that for the farmers. One of the first steps in the project is determine the
spatial variability in food availability at seven different on shore production sites. This research will be
supervised by researchers from the research group Aquaculture in Delta Areas and Imares and will
partly take place in Lake Veere and Eastern Scheldt. Students will/can also be involved in testing the
devices, statistical analysis of measured environmental parameters.
Research type: literature study, fieldwork, lab work, statistical analyses
Research level: minor/internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of ecology and biology of shellfish; knowledge of hydrology, good
analytical and statistical skills; communicative (with local farmers); sea legs; good planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa and Jorik Creemers) and Imares
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
OFF BOTTOM NEAR SHORE SHELLFISH CULTURE: PRODUCTION MODEL
In the RAAK PRO project described in 1, also a mathematical production model will be developed. The
model will be based on existing production models. Student(s) will work closely together with
researchers in Canada, from Imares and research group Aquaculture in Delta Areas in setting up the
model which will describe growth, mortality based on environmental factors like temperature, algae
concentration, flow rate and other factors.
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Research type: literature study, model research
Research level: minor/internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of ecology, biology of shellfish and hydrology; good analytical and
mathematical skills; good planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa and Tony van der Hiele) and Imares
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
PRODUCTION IN-LAND SHELLFISH PONDS
The production of seafood products in land based pond systems is developing in Zeeland under the
influence of different (research) projects. The aim of these pond systems is to produce algae, different
species of shellfish (mussels, oysters and manila clams), ragworms, seaweed and combinations of these
products. For a stable growth of these organisms and a constant production of these pond systems, a
constant concentration of nutrients in the water is necessary and the water quality should be kept
stable. Parameters that play a role in the production of these ponds are o.a.: nutrient concentrations,
algal biomass and shellfish biomass. To get a better understanding of the relations between these
parameters a model should be made about N and P fluxes within this system and it’s biological
components (organisms). Experimental work will be necessary in order to get valid data.
This research will partly take place in the (SEA-)Lab in Vlissingen and involves o.a. the cultivation of algae
and shellfish and nutrient analyses with the HACH kit. The other part will be the monitoring of nutrients
and other parameters in land based shellfish ponds in Yerseke.
Research type: literature study, experiments (HZ, Vlissingen)en monitoring of cultivation ponds
(Yerseke)
Research level: minor/ internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology/chemistry; good analytical skills; driver’s license; the
possession of a car is an asset.
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
ALGAE AND MUSSEL PRODUCTION IN A PONDSYSTEM
The research assignment at the KMWP (Koninklijke Maatschap Wilhelminapolder) aims at finding a
balance in the production of microalgae and consumption by mussels. The production of algae takes
place in a natural basin, inoculation of algae takes place with the help of a 15m3 raceway. Extra fertilizer
can be added to the pond. The consumption of algae takes place by mussels that are cultivated in
separate basins, the algae rich pond water is pumped into these mussel basins. Also brackish water
cockles (commercially not interesting) consume algae in the algae pond. Attempts to obtain a stable
algae concentration in the pond system has not succeeded yet, algae from the raceway have not been
found in the pond system. Experiences learned that a algae bloom can collapse when too much
nutrients are added to the system. The assignment is to find the proper regulation of the pond system
to obtain a constant (optimal) algae concentration in the algae pond. Control variables are; inoculation
of algae, fertilization of the pond system, amount of mussels, circulation of the water.
Research type: fieldwork, literature study
Research level: minor/ internship/final thesis
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Prerequisite: good at performing fieldwork, knowledge of algae cultivation, good communication skills
(cooperation with a student from Wageningen University), preferably drivers license since traveling to
Wilhelminadorp is necessary.
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jasper van Houcke)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
ALGAL QUALITY IN RELATION TO SHELLFISH PRODUCTION
At this different locations in the Province of Zeeland, companies farm shellfish (mussels, oysters and
clams) in ponds. These shellfish species are fed with cultured algae. The best feed for shellfish are living
algae. Algae production in ponds and bioreactors is in most cases significantly lower in winter then in
summer. Therefor in some periods there is a surplus of algae, in other periods there is not enough feed
(algae) for the standing stock of shellfish in the ponds.
Companies (farming both algae and shellfish on land) are interested how to store a surplus of algae in
such a way that the quality of the algae as feed for shellfish is maintained and the algae can be used in
periods of a deficit of algae. Earlier research by students revealed a promising technique, namely
flocculation. By means of flocculation the total volume to be stored can be reduced enormously.
However the quality of the algae were not measured up to now. The quality of the algae could be tested
in two ways: chemically (analytical measurements) and biologically (feeding trails with shellfish).
Research type: literature study, experiments (HZ, Vlissingen)
Research level: minor/ internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology/chemistry; good analytical skills; communicative
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Pim van Dalen and Jasper van Houcke)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
INFLUENCING ALGAL QUALITY BY MEANS OF CULTIVATION PARAMETERS
The quality of algal biomass is up until now defined by fatty acid composition, however in other feed
sources factors play a role as well (for instance protein content and amino acid profile). On top of this
the composition of algae is (partly) dependent on the cultivation parameters (such as light, nutrient
concentrations, etc.). Literature study should lead to algal quality parameters and ways to influence
these parameters. Based on this literature research an experimental set-up should be designed.
Experimental work should lead to different (wanted) algal qualities. Analytical measurement could be
done in combination with chemistry students.
Research type: literature study, experiments (HZ, Vlissingen)
Research level: minor/ internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology/chemistry; good analytical skills; communicative
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Pim van Dalen and Jasper van Houcke)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
FEEDING TRIALS OYSTERS
From literature it is known the flavor (taste and smell) of oysters can be influenced by the diet (algal
species). For instance fatty acids can play an important role in the formation of odors in oysters. A next
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step in this research is to start up the actual practical work. This involves cultivation of different algal
species, diet formulations and to start feeding trails. Even though this might sound easy, it’s quite
complex. The oysters should be fed with the right amount of algae on the right time, algae should be onhand sufficiently at all times and oysters should be carefully monitored. Experimental design and
planning will be very important in this research project.
This research will take place in the labs in Vlissingen and involves cultivation of algae (different species)
and oysters, water quality analysis and biological measurements (algal counts, growth, condition index)
Research type: literature study, experimental work
Research level: minor/internship
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology; good analytical skills; communicative; punctual; good
planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jasper van Houcke)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
ALGAE FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES
The industry in Terneuzen (Zeeuws Vlaanderen) produces waste, in terms of phosphorous, nitrogen
compounds, smoke gases and residual heat. The project Algae for Industrial purposes aims to use this
waste for the culture of algae, resulting in biomass production (algae) and water purification. Several
small scale experiments have been carried out to test algae production on process water. Results of
these experiments show fluctuating production and nitrogen removal. The following step will be
upscaling (larger scale) the research in the possibilities for algae production and nutrient removal on
industrial process water. .
This research will take place in the SEA-Lab in Vlissingen and involves i.a. the culture of algae and
nutrient analyses. Apart from that modelling is involved in the research.
Research type: literature study and experiments
Research level: minor/ internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology/chemistry; good analytical skills.
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa, Pim van Dalen and Michiel Michels)
Period: 1st semester 2012-13
CULTIVATION OF EUROPEAN LOBSTER
The Bolier family in Scherpenisse (Tholen) owns two saline reservoirs, fed by saline groundwater. In
these small ecosystems they cultivate European lobster. The family Bolier wants to have more insight in
the lobster production capacity and food availability for lobsters (carrying capacity) in the reservoirs. In
former years Water Management students did their internship on different topics of lobster cultivation
in these reservoirs, concerning the cultivation and survival of larvae, production capacity and a general
feasibility study to lobster cultivation in Zeeland. In this follow up study, an inventory of lobsters will be
done by catching them in fish pots and measuring them. An inventory of the food availability in the
reservoirs will be done by sampling. Possibly tagging and recapturing of lobster will be involved.
This research will take place in Scherpenisse and involves catching an measuring lobster and sampling
food availability with the inventory giving a prediction of the total carrying capacity.
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Research type: literature study and experiments
Research level: minor/ internship
Prerequisite: good understanding of biology and ecology; a drivers license and possession of a car
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa/ Jorik Creemers/Jasper van Houcke)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
OPTIMIZING ON BOTTOM MUSSEL CULTURE
Mussel bottom culture on plots in the Eastern Scheldt and Waddensea is the most important economic
aquaculture production in the Netherlands. Small mussels of approx. 1 cm (so called mussel seed) is
seeded on bottom culture plots and after a period of 2-3 years mussels have grown to consumption size.
Due to high mortality rates, the yield of consumption size mussels is most lower what it could be,
based on the amount of small mussels seeded: maximum of 1,75 kg consumption size mussels from 1 kg
of mussel seed. Recently, in close cooperation with mussel farmers, an applied research has started on
optimizing the production of mussels. In this research (together with Imares institute) the focus lies on
applied research and model development how to control the mortality rate and optimizing growth of
mussels on the plots.
Research type: literature study, fieldwork, lab work
Research level: minor/internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of ecology and biology of shellfish; good analytical skills;
communicative (with local farmers); sea legs; good planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa) and Imares
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
FLEXIBLE SPATIAL USE IN DELTA AREAS
In near shore Delta areas different users ( aquaculture, nature, safety, recreation, shipping) claim space
for their activities. Spatial planning is mostly based on the excluding principle (this location for
stakeholder a, that location for stakeholder b). Near shore aquaculture activities are rather divers: from
seaweed production sites, bottom culture of mussels and oyster, off bottom culture for mussel seed and
growth out of mussels and other shell fish. The near shore aquaculture sector want to expand their
activities but is facing a spatial planning which is in a dead-lock. One of the solution to solve this spatial
deadlock might be a flexible use of space in Delta Areas. The concept of flexible use of space is based on
the idea that stakeholders make use of certain areas during a limited time period (season, year, several
years). After this period the location gets another destination. Research questions focus on which
combination in time of aquaculture activities and other functions are realistic and can have a surplus
value. The first step in the research will focus on the demands of the different sectors. These demands
will be derived from interviews with stakeholders and consultation of experts.
Research type: literature study, interviews
Research level: minor/internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: feeling and knowledge of aquaculture and spatial planning, excellent communicative skills;
good planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jouke Heringa)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
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SEAWEED CULTIVATION
12.a Incentives to start seaweed production in Zeeland at production scale take place. Different
entrepreneurs planned seaweed production at several locations in the Eastern Scheldt. The selected
locations so far are low dynamic, i.e. low flow velocities and low wave action. For flexible spatial use in
delta areas (as described in assignment 10) it would be interesting to know more about the
circumstances that seaweed need to be cultivated and if there are any differences in growth rate at
different locations.
The research will partly be based on literature research and partly contain fieldwork at different
locations of the Eastern Scheldt.
12.b Incentives to start seaweed production in Zeeland at production scale take place. Different
entrepreneurs planned seaweed production at several locations in the Eastern Scheldt. One problem
that the entrepreneurs are facing, is the restrictions that come with protected Nature 2000 areas. The
permission to cultivate seaweed stands or goes with the effect that this cultivation has on the nature
values. To get more insight in this matter, research needs to be done. Negative aspects might include
disturbing the environment, positive aspects might include improvements of the nursery function of the
delta by providing shelter and food for small fish.
The research will partly be based on literature research and partly contain fieldwork by sampling
seaweed lines at Ouwerkerk Eastern Scheldt.
Research type: literature study, field work
Research level: minor/internship
Prerequisite: good practical skills; good understanding of ecology and biology of seaweed; good
analytical skills; good planning skills
Researcher involved: research group aquaculture (Jorik Creemers /Jouke Heringa)
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
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RESEARCH GROUP BUILDING WITH NATURE
Introduction
As a result of changes in societal demand and technical developments, water management and
engineering are moving from hard traditional structures like dikes and dams, to designs in which natural
structures and processes are incorporated. One of the underlying factors in this development is the
increasing awareness of the impacts of climate change and its effect on water levels and extreme
events. Furthermore, water managers are expected to create more safety, opportunities for recreation,
and other benefits, with increasingly smaller budgets. This requires infrastructure that combines
multiple functions.
In our research group we work on application of the Building with Nature concept. ‘Building with
Nature’ focusses on solutions that use abiotic forces of nature (e.g. wind and currents that transport
sand) and ecosystem services delivered by organisms (e.g. reefs and vegetation that catch and stabilize
sand). The research group also focusses on Building for Nature: creating additional nature values in and
on monofunctional structures such as dikes.
Current research themes include
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Optimizing the design of Building with Living Nature structures such as oyster reefs or salt
marshes, used for coastal protection and nature development.
Identification of the effects of Building with Living Nature solutions in the Eastern Scheldt
on the functioning (other ecosystem functions) of the Eastern Scheldt.
Design and implementation of Building with Nature solutions for flood protection,
including safety assessments for the specific building blocks and the acquisition of
permits.
Design and implementation of Building for Nature applications.
Transfer of knowledge by means of an expertise management method.
EFFECT OF SIZE, SHAPE AND ORIENTATION OF OYSTER REEFS ON HABITAT DIVERSIFICATION
BwN solutions aim at creating additional value, next to the primary target function. The primary target
functions of the artificial oyster reefs in the Eastern Scheldt are wave reduction and sediment capture.
Additional values can be found in creating additional microhabitats for other organisms. Behind and inbetween the natural oyster reefs, in the Eastern Scheldt, it is possible to find a system of small pools and
gullies. In the artificial oyster reefs, this has only developed in one specific case. This research aims at
identifying the factors that are creating the pools and gullies. Knowledge developed can be used in
future designs for artificial oyster reefs.
Research type: field research, GIS
Research level: Water management students: minor, internship or graduation bachelor thesis project.
Level of the assignment can be adjusted
Prerequisite: interest in morphology, GIS; eye for ecology
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Customer: João Paiva; HZ partners in RAAK project
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
THE EFFECT OF OYSTER REEFS ON SEDIMENT DYNAMICS IN THE EASTERN SCHELDT
Oysters are so called eco-engineers. They succeed in changing waves, currents and sedimentation
patterns in their environment. In the Eastern Scheldt, oyster reefs have been extending from virtually
nothing in 1980 to large surface cover (1000’s of hectares today. This will affect the abiotic conditions in
the Eastern Scheldt. In this research we will look at the impact of natural oyster reefs on sediment
dynamics. You will analyse measurements from the field, extract data from GIS maps to quantify the
effects, and look at results that can be obtained from model that has been obtained earlier. Ultimately,
the knowledge obtained from this research can be used to optimize the design of artificial oyster reefs,
as to their efficiency in sediment capture.
Research type: field research and desk analysis with GIS or images
Research level: Water management students and/or Civil engineering students; minor, internship or
graduation bachelor thesis project.
Prerequisite: interest in ecology, morphology, and fluid dynamics
Customer: Tjark van Heuvel and João Paiva
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
RELATION BETWEEN THE SHAPE, SIZE AND ORIENTATION OF OYSTER REEFS AND THE
CONDITION OF THE OYSTERS
The advantage of using oyster reefs in flood protection is that reefs will grow in height and will therefore
be able to keep pace with sea level rise. It is therefore important that the oysters growing on the reef
are in good condition. This could be affected by the position of the oysters in the reef, which in its turn
can be controlled by the size, shape and orientation of the oyster reef and can therefore be translated
into future design criteria for oyster reefs. Size, shape and orientation determine the direction of the
current flowing over the reefs, and therefore the food availability to the oysters. This research aims at
identify factors that affect the condition of oysters.
Research type: field research and lab analysis
Research level: Water management students and/or Civil engineering students; study project, minor,
internship or graduation bachelor thesis project. Level of the assignment can be adjusted
Prerequisite: interest in ecology, morphology, and fluid dynamics
Customer: Paul Vader, HZ partners in RAAK project
Period: semester 1 2013-2014
MEASURING THE IMPACT OF OYSTERS ON CURRENT AND WAVE REDUCTION IN EXPERIMENT
IN WATER LAB
Oysters are eco-engineers. Oyster reefs are part of innovative solutions to protect dikes against wave
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impacts. However, the precise relationship between (natural) oyster reefs and impact on waves and
flows is not known. In this investigation experiments in the water lab will be developed, using real
oysters shells. Results will also be used to validate results obtained with artificial oyster tiles earlier.
Detail fluid mechanical flow and wave patterns will be studied to predict sediment transport under lab
conditions, and compared with field observations. This research can also be defined for artificial
musselbeds, simulating properties that can be found in vivo.
Research type: field and lab research, desk research
Research level: Water Management students and/or Civil Engineering students, minor, internship of
final thesis. Level can be adjusted to a study project
Prerequisite: interest in physical processes, practical skills, interest in ecology, drivers license.
Customer: Tjark van Heuvel and João Paiva
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
BUILDING FOR NATURE ON DIKES IN THE EASTERN SCHELDT
Currently, dikes and foreshores are designed for flood protection, safety and sustainability. The Building
for Nature approach aims at innovating the design of these safety structures, thereby adding nature
values. Dikes with this type of additional structures are called rich dikes, or rich revetments. The
addition of nature values make these structures more of interest for other use, such as diving, fishing,
aquaculture production. In a first exploratory research, a number of biodiversity assessments of dikes at
the Eastern Scheldt were analysed for the effect of vertical position, roughness and water retention on
biodiversity. However, not all materials could be analysed, not all methods for determining biodiversity
have been used in the analysis, the determination of roughness still needs to be elaborated further,
both as to measuring methods and to testing the effect of roughness gradients on the settlement of
organisms. Also, a desk study on the use of structures to enhance biodiversity remains to be performed.
Research type: desk research, field tests and measurements
Research level: Water management students, civil engineering students: minor, internship or
graduation bachelor thesis project. Level of the assignment can also be adjusted to a study project
Prerequisite: interest in ecology and/or interest in materials properties, good analytical skills
Customer: Carla Pesch; Yvo Provoost (Projectbureau Zeeweringen); partners in RAAK Pro BfN
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
MULTIPLE SPACE USAGE OF DIKES AROUND THE EASTERN SCHELDT
The Eastern Scheldt is an important part of the Dutch delta for nature development, recreation and
aquaculture. To keep the inland part of the delta safe for flooding, the Eastern Scheldt is surrounded by
dikes. The combination of functions and their stakeholders, make that a shortage of space sometimes
occurs. Important nature in the Eastern Scheldt is protected, but there is a demand for more space for
aquaculture (production of mussels and oysters). Also shift is taking place towards shellfish cultivation in
the water column (attached to ropes and in baskets) instead of bottom cultivation, since the latter
seems to put more stress on nature.
Since dikes are mostly solely used for protection of the inland against flooding, it can be interesting to
explore the possibilities for aquaculture activities on and in the vicinity of dikes and the effects for
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nature development. As part of the RAAK-PRO project a feasibility study for aquaculture activities on
dikes took place, some production methods seem to be feasible. Remaining questions are:
How can aquaculture activities on dikes improve the safety of dikes?
Can seaweed production improve the nursery function of delta areas for fish? Can seaweed production
also enhance safety?
How do waves and current influence the cultivation of shellfish on dikes?
What are possibilities for combination of the functions nature development and aquaculture on ‘for
embankments’ (small old dikes) in the Eastern Scheldt and what locations seem suitable?
Research type: literature study, field work, experimental work
Research level: study project / minor/internship/final thesis
Prerequisite: good understanding of ecology, hydrology, good analytical skills, good planning skills
Researcher involved: Research group building with nature; Raak Pro partner BfN
Period: 1st semester 2013-14
RICH REVETMENTS IN THE EASTERN/WESTERN SCHELDT
Rich Revetments are created to enhance habitat diversification on dikes, in order to enhance
biodiversity. Recently, an overview of the rich revetments locations in the Eastern and western Scheldt
has been made, including a description of the locations, the materials used and a biodiversity
assessment. The following research is the conclusion of the previous one including the design of a field
guide for materials used in (rich) revetments, including an identification key. This semester, a second
monitoring should be carried out, in the field, including comparison of the Rich Revetments with
traditional revetments.
Research type: field research, interviews, desk research
Research level: internship or minor
Prerequisite: interest in ecology, communication skills, drivers licence. Ability to read Dutch; for a minor,
at least half of the group should be able to read Dutch.
Customer: João Paiva; Yvo Provoost (Bureau Zeeweringen)
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
STRUCTURING DESIGN GUIDELINES AND CALCULATION RULES OF FLOOD PROTECTION
SOLUTIONS
Existing knowledge in the field of designing flood protection solutions should be made available for
professionals. The first step after the collection of the guidelines and rules, will be the structured
transfer into the Vue software. Ultimately, knowledge will be made available in a semantic wiki
Research type: desk research
Research level: Civil engineering students: minor or internship
Prerequisite: interest in IT and in flood protection guidelines and calculation rules
Customer: Tjark van Heuvel, Paul Vader; Bernadette Wichman (Deltares)
Period: semester 2, 2012-2013
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STRUCTURING THE PROCESS OF SAFETY ASSESSMENTS OF FLOOD PROTECTION SOLUTIONS
Existing knowledge in the field of safety assessment (failure mechanisms) for building blocks of flood
protection solutions should be made available for professionals. The first step after the collection of the
guidelines and rules, will be the structured transfer into the Vue software. Ultimately, knowledge will be
made available in a semantic wiki. This project will focus on 3 cases, 2 of which are in the Eastern
Scheldt and 1 in the Western Scheldt: the Oesterdam (sand nourishment + artificial oyster reefs) and
Sophia beach (sand nourishment) in the Eastern Scheldt, and the Clay dike (kleidijk) in the Western
Scheldt
Research type: desk research
Research level: Civil engineering students: minor or internship
Prerequisite: interest in IT and in flood protection safety assessments
Customer: Tjark van Heuvel, Paul Vader; Projectbureau Zeeweringen
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
ANALYSIS OF TARGET GROUPS WITHIN RIJKSWATERSTAAT
As a result of changes in societal demand and technical developments, water management and
engineering are moving from hard traditional structures like dikes and dams, to designs in which natural
structures and processes are incorporated. This approach is called Building with Nature. Furthermore,
this approach also answers the challenge for water managers to create more safety, opportunities for
recreation, and other benefits, with increasingly smaller budgets. One of the obstacles to
implementation of BwN solutions, is the fact that the approach is not part of mainstream thinking yet.
Rijkswaterstaat, the executive body of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, is
responsible for coastal protection projects. At Rijkswaterstaat, the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle for policy
implementation is used. Each phase of implementation has its own (and different) dynamics. This
project aims at identifying, analyzing and characterizing the different phases of a project and their
corresponding responsibility levels, in order to identify the type and depth of knowledge demands
required for each level. This will assist the BwN research group in their products - target groups
matching. The first step in this analysis is identifying lessons learned from successful BwN cases. Results
will also be linked to the digital process structure of dike design and construction that is developed by
the research group in cooperation with Rijkswaterstaat and Ecoshape.
Research type: desk research and interviews
Research level: Delta Management students; minor or internship
Prerequisite: ability to read Dutch, interest in Building with Nature approaches, good communication
skills, good analytical skills
Researcher(s) involved: Carla Pesch; Rijkswaterstaat partners in Raak Pro BwLN
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
Note: similar assignments can be formulated for other target organizations
GOVERNANCE AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF BUILDING WITH NATURE SOLUTIONS
Building with Nature solutions purposely combine multiple functions. In this way, they differ from
traditional engineering solutions, and this can have important implications for their implementation and
management, because Building with Nature solutions cross multiple institutional boundaries. Vegetated
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foreshores, for instance, combine a contribution to flood risk reduction with a contribution to nature.
Traditionally, flood defence is the established domain of actors like water boards and Rijkswaterstaat in
the Netherlands. However, vegetated foreshores connecting dikes to wetlands are often managed by
other parties such as nature organizations. Including these parties in safety issues requires new
institutional arrangements. As the first experiences with BwN solutions become available, the need for,
and importance of, designing new appropriate governance arrangements for their implementation is
highlighted. Flood protection of the Emanuel polder, located at the Western Scheldt, is based on a clay
dike (covered with grass) and a salt marsh in front of it. The dike partition of this polder has failed the
safety assessments of 2010, as to its revetment materials. Strengthening the dike can be achieved by
increasing the layer of clay. At the same time, the salt marsh in front of the dike (the Schor van Waarde),
that has been stabilized by means of two groynes in 2003, needs rejuvenation. This can be achieved by
removing the top layer. The materials removed from the salt marsh can be used for strengthening the
revetment materials on the dikes.
In this assignment, you will analyse the implementation process of Building with Nature applications
such as the Oesterdam project and the Noordwaard, and study the successful implementation strategy
for Room for the River in the Netherlands (where the position of Rijkswaterstaat as the leading partner
in the planning, design and implementation of river works has been broken, and where assigned
planning responsibility to local and regional parties). You will identify lessons learned, best practices and
critical success factors, and then identify best practices and critical success factors for the case of the
Emanuel polder.
Research type: desk research, interviews
Research level: Delta Management students, minor, internship
Prerequisite: ability to read Dutch (in the case of a minor, at least half of the group should be able to
read Dutch), interest in Building with Nature approaches, good communications skills, good analytical
skills
Researcher(s) involved: Carla Pesch; partners in RaakPro BwLN
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
THE USE OF GIS FOR BIO-GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION ON THE EASTERN SCHELDT
Geographical Information Systems can be a powerful tool in the analysis for correlations between
habitats and the abiotic factors in their environment. In the province of Zeeland Rijkswaterstaat and the
Waterboard use a GIS for the management of their structures and dikes. Also permits and licenses given
to third parties are controlled with the GIS.
The HZ aims to fill a database for the Eastern Scheldt, with all abiotic and biotic information available.
This database can then be used for research purposes related to aquaculture, rich revetments (building
for Nature) and artificial reefs (building with living nature), etc. In this assignment you will identify,
collect and analyse the appropriate information and help developing BwN-GIS applications.
Research type: desk research; data mining;
Research level: Delta management students, Civil Engineering students, Water Management students;
minor or internship
Prerequisite: practical skills in GIS applications, communication skills, analytical skills
Customer: João Paiva
Period: semester 1, 2013-14
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RESEARCH GROUP WATER TECHNOLOGY
Introduction
The research group water technology aims at development of applicable technologies for sustainable
water (re)use in a combined fresh/saline delta.
Current research themes include
1) Recycling of surface and process water for industry, agriculture and aquaculture. Examples are
reuse of cooling tower water, rainwater runoff and industrial wastewater.
2) Recovery of valuable content in waste water. Examples are acoustic particle filtering and nutrient
recovery.
3) Monitoring and control. Examples are monitoring and control of water filtration systems and
control of biofouling in water systems with ultrasound.
GROWTH INHIBITION OF MICRO-ORGANISMS USING LOW FREQUENCY US TRAVELLING
WAVES
Biological contamination in recycled water is one of the main causes of water quality deterioration in
food industry and aquaculture. Prevention at this moment is mainly done with chemicals. However, in
order to limit the amount of chemicals added, new techniques like ultrasound are being investigated.
The aim is to study the effects of travelling acoustic waves, frequency and intensity on the growth of
algae, zooplankton and biofouling in ponds, tanks and pipes. This semester we’ll focus on biofouling in
tanks and pipes and possibly disinfection in salt water basins. There’s room for about 2-3 assignments
within this topic.
Research type: experiments
Research level: bachelor minor, internship or graduation (level can easily be adapted)
Prerequisite: interest in physics and microbiology
Customer: HZ and partners in RAAK project
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
OPERATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ULTRAFILTRATION PROCESSES
Recently we have installed an ultrafiltration unit in the SEALab, which will be used for onsite water
purification. The aim is to determine which parameters are of influence to the filtration process. Flush
times, air scouring and filtration run times are parameters to be evaluated on different types of feed
water.
Research type: experiments
Research level: internship
Prerequisite: good understanding of physics
Customer: HZ Water Technology and Evides Water Company
Period: semester 1, 2013-2014
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Internships and graduation projects outside HZ
PILOT PLANT HARNASCHPOLDER ( DELFT, THE HAGUE), EVIDES & VEOLIA & ROSSMARK
In 2009 a pilot plant at the Harnaschpolder WWPT was constructed to explore the possibilities of
advanced treatment of WWTP effluent for the suppletion of fresh surface water, aquifer recharge and
to provide an alternative source for greenhouse water. Advanced treatment of WWTP effluent is
required to reach surface water quality at maximum tolerable risk standard (MTR) level, a guideline for
surface water quality of the Dutch government, and to produce greenhouse water. The objective of the
pilot research is to demonstrate that surface water and greenhouse water can be produced from WWTP
effluent at a reliable and cost effective way. Two treatment lines are available: the reference line which
contains conventional technologies and the innovative line which contains new technologies. The
objective of the innovative line is to produce water more cost effective compared to the reference line.
Contact: Hans Cappon, Sigrid Scherrenberg (TU Delft)
DETERMINING THE OPTIMUM PROCESS CONDITIONS FOR NF AND EDR FOR MILD
DESALINATION
At the production site DECO a pilot will be built for the partial desalination of 3 different water streams:
cooling tower blow down, spuikom water (surface water) and effluent from the waste water plant of
Dow. The main aim is to reduce the conductivity to 1 mS/cm. The pilot consists of a pre-treatment
(coagulation, lamella sedimentation, ultrafiltration) and 2 different desalination techniques: NF
(nanofiltration) and EDR (Electro Dialysis Reversal). This internship will focus on the desalination
techniques. Performance of the NF an EDR will be investigated. Aspects considered are the Key
Performing Indicators to monitor fouling, specific energy use and water quality. Contact: Wilbert van
den Broek (w.vandenbroek@evides.nl)
OPTIMISATION OF PRE-TREATMENT FOR MILD DESALINATION
At the production site DECO a pilot will be built for the partial desalination of 3 different water streams:
cooling tower blow down, spuikom water (surface water) and effluent from the waste water plant of
Dow. The main aim is to reduce the conductivity to 1 mS/cm. The pilot consists of a pre-treatment
(coagulation, lamella sedimentation, ultrafiltration) and 2 different desalination techniques:
nanofiltration and EDR (Electro Dialysis Reversal). This internship will focus on the pre-treatment.
Optimum dosage of the coagulant for the sedimentation , the dosage for the UF, the achievable fluxes,
optimum backwash procedures will be investigated. Also the fouling characteristics of het UF-permeate
for het NF and EDR will be determined. Contact: Wilbert van den Broek (w.vandenbroek@evides.nl)
WETSUS
Wetsus Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology in Leeuwarden is the largest research
centre in the Netherlands. They have many research assignments in various fields from physics to
biology and everything in between. Please consult the Wetsus website (www.wetsus.nl) and click on
“PhD positions” -> “Graduation and internships” for more information.
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SHELL NED CHEMIE BV
Shell has several assignments on wastewater treatment, aquatic ecology and environmental risk
assessment. Please have a look at Infonet for more details.
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RESEARCH GROUP SAFETY & SPATIAL
PLANNING
RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT RESILIENT DELTAS
Resilience as “the ability of the community to cope with major disturbances and crises” is an integral
approach of the paradigm “multi- level water safety in the Deltas”, focusing on various groups in society
like citizen communities, governmental bodies and business communities to cope with major crises in
society. Instrumentalization of resilience is necessary to establish a common ground to create and
facilitate resilience in the Deltas.
Resilience in the Deltas is aiming on integrating resilience aspects in major systems in society as Safety,
Health, Economy, infrastructure and Social Welfare. The focus is on reducing physical and social loss and
to have society restored effectively taking a minimum amount of time.
It is of great importance to have instruments by which management and local authorities of certain
urban delta areas, can follow and measure the process and its implications. LSU has developed a
Resilience Inference Model to instrumentalize this specific need. LSU has been invited to use this model
to create a Dutch model based on indicators and data from the Netherlands.
Assignment:
Objective: Creating a model to measure the vulnerability and the concept of resilience in the Dutch
Delta area. The variables will be integrated in the RIM model.
Main Question:
Develop the indicators its variables and interdependencies of the RIM model (NL);
Sub questions:
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Watersafety;
Use the concept of water safety by using the ‘Keur Waterschap Scheldestromen en de
legger waterkeringen’, developed by “het waterschap Scheldestromen” in Zeeland.
Divide the indicator water safety into sub variables and define how to measure the
sub variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of multi level water safety to distinguish the interaction with
land use and crisis management. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
Healthcare;
Divide the indicator healthcare into sub variables and define how to measure the sub
variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of healthcare to distinguish the interaction with other
indicators. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
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Safety and security
Divide the indicator safety and security into sub variables and define how to measure
the sub variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of safety and security to distinguish the interaction with the
other indicators. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
Community care
Divide the indicator community care into sub variables and define how to measure
the sub variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of communities and towns to distinguish the interaction with
other indicators. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
Vital Infrastructure
Divide the indicator vital infrastructure into sub variables and define how to measure
the sub variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of vital infrastructure to distinguish the interaction with the
other indicators. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
Demographics and economics
Divide the indicator water safety into sub variables and define how to measure the
sub variables, based on a relevant literature analysis
Use the system approach of multi level water safety to distinguish the interaction with
the other indicators. Define the variables, to make it measurable.
Research type: literature study and interviews
Research level: minor/ internship
Prerequisite: good analytical skills; English fluent in writing and speaking; specific interest and
knowledge in a specific area as mentioned above
Researcher involved: research group watersafety (Dick Fundter)
Period: 2nd semester 2012-13, 1st semester 2013-2014
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