Research Thrusts
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Resiliency and self-sufficiency are very important for forward operating bases and fixed installations critical in water-constrained states.
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The supply of safe drinking water and the effective treatment of wastewater to protect public health and the environment are essential for the prosperity of the future generations.
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We have the opportunity to translate the research advancements for general public benefits, especially in the arid Southwest and communities facing water scarcity.
Thrusts
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The organizational structure of the research team includes five research thrusts:
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Thrust 1: Autonomous and Distributed Water Systems
The objective of this research thrust is to develop novel decentralized water systems for water reuse applications. These systems should satisfy three key outcomes: high water quality, maximum system uptime and water production, minimum maintenance interventions. Furthermore, they should be applicable to a variety of source water qualities.
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Thrust 2: Data Science
The objective of this research thrust is to move towards autonomous and self-correcting water systems by developing a machine learning driven operational platform utilizing system data to make real-time operational and maintenance decisions to satisfy three key outcomes: high water quality, maximum system uptime and water production, minimum maintenance interventions.
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Thrust 3: Concentrate Management
The objective of this research thrust is to become distinct leaders in the management of unconventional, impaired, and concentrated brines by reducing waste, integrating renewables, and maximizing re-use to approach zero-liquid discharge.
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Thrust 4: Attenuation of Trace Organics
The objective of this research thrust is to evaluate the use of advanced oxidation by singlet oxygen as a tertiary wastewater treatment technique to attenuate recalcitrant trace organic compounds (TOrCs) that are not removed by conventional wastewater treatment processes.
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Thrust 5: Detection and Attenuation of Viruses
The objective of this research thrust is to develop an efficient, sensitive methodology to detect and quantify infectious viruses in potable water reuse treatment processes.
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The program includes three cross-cutting thrusts to enable and drive a convergent research approach:
Thrust 6: Sustainability and Circularity
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Thrust 7: Education and Workforce Development
This research thrust focuses on the development and use of hands-on laboratory activities to teach water reuse principles and applications. Hands-on learning will be aided by theoretical lesson plans that will be delivered asynchronously to extend the reach of the program to a diverse audience.
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Thrust 8: Technology transfer
The objective of this research thrust is to engage with different constituents to disseminate technical and education results from the program.