Performance Materials Lab
The William States Lee College of Engineering
Performance Materials Lab

Clean water

Overview

Our commitment extends to rigorously investigating the pervasive issue of water pollution across both freshwater and marine environments. Through meticulous sampling and advanced analytical techniques, we strive to identify the diverse range of contaminants impacting these vital ecosystems, from industrial discharge and agricultural runoff in rivers and lakes to plastic debris and chemical pollutants in our oceans. Our research delves into understanding the sources, transport pathways, and ecological consequences of these pollutants, providing crucial data for informed decision-making and the development of effective remediation strategies.

Research focus

Our lab focuses on developing holistic solutions for ensuring clean and sustainable water resources. Our research integrates the development of advanced water treatment technologies, the improvement of water quality monitoring and assessment methods, and the promotion of sustainable water management practices. We investigate the sources, fate, transport, and effects of pollutants, including emerging contaminants, and develop strategies for their removal. A key aspect of our work is understanding and optimizing the water-energy nexus. We also address the critical need for ecosystem restoration and remediation, and we examine the impact of climate change on water systems to inform adaptation and mitigation strategies.

R/V Dawn
The Research Vessel Dawn in the Caribbean

Projects

We are engaged in several projects aimed at exploring the potential of composite materials in various applications. Some of our key projects include:

  1. Water pollution in the Caribbean: Investigating the sources, fate, transport of water pollutants , including emerging contaminants, as well as addressing the critical need for ecosystem restoration and remediation in the Southern Caribbean.
  2. PFAS water pollution in the Arctic: Exploring the distribution of PFAS chemicals in the Arctic ocean between Alaska and Norway to establish baseline contamination data before the Arctic opens up to commerce.

Join Us

We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. If you’re interested in contributing to this exciting field, feel free to contact us.