Overview

• The prototype pairs a baffle‑equipped grease interceptor with a small alum dose to clump and remove fine and emulsified fats.
• Tests with actual kitchen wastewater showed up to 98% fat removal, compared with roughly 40% for conventional traps, even at high temperatures and with detergents.
• The team says the design can scale for different kitchen sizes and be retrofitted to existing systems, offering a path to lower sewer maintenance costs.
• RMIT is working with South East Water, Intelligent Water Networks, Water Research Australia, Barwon Region Water Corporation, Queensland Urban Utilities and ACO under the ARC project.
• The peer‑reviewed study detailing the approach was published July 15, 2025, in ACS ES&T Water as part of broader efforts to prevent sewer‑clogging fatbergs formed when FOG binds with wipes and debris.