Since 1992, INTECNA has been synonymous with innovation and sustainability in the fine chemicals and water treatment sectors. Founded by Dr. Federico Rivalta, the company has distinguished itself through over 30 years of international experience in more than 50 countries. Continuous innovation and a focus on environmental sustainability are the pillars of INTECNA’s success, making it a benchmark for advanced solutions in industrial water treatment today.
A Solid and Diversified Group
INTECNA began its operations with the construction of its first production plant in central Italy, complemented by a Research and Development laboratory. This, along with a second production site for its systems and a training center, continues to drive the company’s innovation.
“The company’s experience has always been tied to the world of water: treatments for drinking water, wastewater, and industrial water across various sectors, with a particular focus on Oil & Gas, where we provide products and services for highly significant projects,” explains Federico Rivalta.
The INTECNA group comprises several companies: INTECNA for financial activities, IDRIMA for plant construction, and NYATEC for chemical production.
Over the past 15 years, the company has developed advanced technologies such as electrocoagulation, an innovative technique for water treatment. “This technique is widely used abroad but is still relatively unknown in Italy because chemical expertise has declined, and water is still considered a low-cost resource,” Rivalta points out.
A Technology with Great Potential: Electrocoagulation
Electrocoagulation is an electrochemical process that uses an electrolytic method to remove pollutants from water. “By passing a direct electric current, the electrodes dissolve and create a matrix of amorphous hydroxides that absorb pollutants. This process is highly effective for removing substances that are difficult to treat with conventional methods, such as fluorides, boron, and ammonia,” explains Rivalta.
The main advantages of this technology include:
- Minimal space required for installation.
- No need for chemical additives.
- Low energy consumption.
- Reduced sludge production, lowering disposal costs.
- Highly selective treatments, ideal for hard-to-remove pollutants.
- Possibility of reusing treated water.
- Reduced discharge volumes, cutting treatment costs.
“It’s a truly environmentally friendly technology, a concrete solution, not just a slogan,” says Rivalta. “That’s why it’s highly appreciated abroad, while in Italy, its value is only now being recognized.”
A Series of Patents on the Process
INTECNA has patented innovative machine designs and electrode materials to improve efficiency and durability. “We couldn’t patent electrocoagulation itself, as it’s a known principle, but we developed electrodes with a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs and increasing treatment effectiveness.”
In wastewater treatment, INTECNA has studied, developed, and patented the CELDAR® technology, based on electrocoagulation, protecting both engineering and materials. Patent No. 102018000009628 describes an innovative system where a direct current flows through special alloy plates, avoiding polarization and the formation of non-conductive layers.
Industrial Applications
This technology stands out for its environmental compatibility, versatility, safety, and ease of management, making it ideal for numerous industrial sectors.
INTECNA’s electrocoagulation is used in various industries for wastewater treatment:
- Textile industry (removal of COD, BOD, and color).
- Food industry (removal of COD, BOD, and organic matter).
- Metal surface treatment (elimination of heavy metals and phosphorus).
- Landfill leachates (reduction of COD, BOD, ammonia, and color).
- Oil emulsion recovery (separation of oil from wastewater).
- Electronics, glass, and aluminum industries (removal of fluorides).
A Tailored Approach for Every Customer
INTECNA’s approach goes beyond selling plants and products; it starts with a thorough analysis of the customer’s needs. Through a method based on experimental research and collaboration with clients, INTECNA develops customized solutions, optimizing existing processes and reducing operational costs.
The company stands out for its ability to identify and improve often-overlooked aspects of industrial processes, offering clients added value that goes beyond mere economic returns. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of industrial operations, contributing to a more sustainable future.
A Reliable International Partner
Operating in an international context, the INTECNA Group deals with regulations and standards from various countries, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and innovative partner across multiple sectors. Its ability to adapt to international scenarios makes the Group a strategic interlocutor for companies focused on exports and excellence in water resource management.
The future of electrocoagulation is now gaining traction in Italy, particularly for its technically and economically effective solutions for removing PFAS, ammonia in biogas plants, arsenic, landfill leachates, and more.
INTECNA continues to lead the way in sustainable water treatment, combining innovation, expertise, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.
